Jekyll and Hyde Quotes Flashcards

Key Themes of Duality

• Humans embody a mixture of good and evil, highlighting the complexity of human nature.
• Acknowledgment that individuals contain dual identities; societal pressures often conceal the darker aspects.
• The primitive instincts persist in everyone, including those who appear civilized.

Character Descriptions

• Dr. Jekyll is depicted as refined, wealthy, and respected, while Mr. Hyde is portrayed as base and disgraced.
• Contrasts in physical appearance emphasize moral and psychological differences; Jekyll is handsome, Hyde is described as pale and dwarfish.

Internal Struggle

• The concept of "polar twins" suggests an ongoing conflict between opposing sides of a person's character.
• Jekyll feels imprisoned by his own emotions, signifying a battle between his public persona and hidden desires.

Jekyll's Confession and Consequences

• Jekyll’s final letter reveals his acknowledgement of personal failure and acceptance of his fate.
• The emotional turmoil surrounding Jekyll leads to tragic outcomes, including the despair of his closest friends.

Transformation and Its Effects

• Scientific curiosity leads to catastrophic consequences, as Jekyll's experiments lead to the emergence of Hyde.
• Lanyon’s rapid decline reflects the severe mental impact of witnessing Jekyll's transformation, signifying the clash between rational thinking and supernatural experiences.

Imagery and Symbolism

• Animalistic imagery associated with Hyde, such as "ape-like fury," implies a regression to primal instincts.
• Use of phrases like "hissing intake of breath" connects to the theme of evil, representing Hyde’s sinister nature.

Religion and Morality

• The narrative suggests a conflict between scientific discovery and moral/ethical considerations, as Jekyll’s pursuit of knowledge defies religious constraints.
• The notion of inevitable sin suggests a philosophical exploration of the human condition and the struggle against inherent flaws.

Lasting Effects of Jekyll's Actions

• Jekyll’s experimentation leads to his physical and emotional deterioration, indicating the cost of tampering with nature.
• The grim realization of becoming "the chief of sufferers" highlights the consequences of unchecked ambitions and ethical disregard.

Reactions to Transformation

• Lanyon’s exclamation "Oh god...oh god" highlights the shock and horror felt in response to the violation of natural order.
• The phrase "deadly nausea" emphasizes the trauma caused by scientific revelations and transformation, further solidifying the danger of Jekyll's experiments.

Explore key quotes from 'The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde' that reveal the dual nature of humanity. These flashcards highlight significant passages and their meanings, emphasizing the theme of good and evil within us all.