Key Themes in Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

Key Themes in Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

• Duality of Man: Stevenson portrays the idea that humans are composed of both good and evil elements, often conflicting. Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde exemplify this duality, representing opposing sides of a single person.

• Good vs. Evil: The novel explores the internal struggle between good and evil within individuals. The character of Hyde embodies evil tendencies, while Jekyll represents good. The novel questions whether these forces can be separated or are inherently intertwined.

• Repression: Victorian societal norms, suppressing desires and emotions, contribute to the internal conflict. Jekyll's repression fuels his transformation into Hyde, showcasing how societal pressures can amplify darker impulses.

• Friendship and Loyalty: Friendships and loyalties are depicted in various ways, from the unwavering support of Utterson, to the fractured relationship between Jekyll and Lanyon, highlighting the complexities of human connections.

• Appearances and Reputation: The novel emphasizes the importance of appearances and reputation within Victorian society. Dr. Jekyll is concerned with maintaining a respected image despite his darker side. External appearances reflect the inner nature of characters, e.g., Jekyll's comfortable home and Hyde's dingy laboratory.

• Curiosity: Curiosity motivates characters like Utterson to investigate the mystery of Jekyll and Hyde. Their inquisitiveness drives the plot forward.

• Lies and Deceit: Secrecy and deception play a major role in the narrative as the secret relationship between Jekyll and Hyde is not immediately known, creating tension. Utterson's investigation is driven by the need to uncover these secrets.

• Violence: The novel depicts two violent crimes highlighting the potential for darkness and cruelty within individuals. The crimes, committed by Hyde, question the inherent presence of violence in human nature.

• Religion: Religious themes are present, with characters sometimes referencing religion and displays of charity. Hyde's actions, including defacing a religious text, underscore his wickedness. Comparisons to the Devil are frequently made.

• Women and Femininity: Female characters are primarily depicted as passive and vulnerable. The novel illustrates the limited social roles of women in the Victorian era by displaying them being victims of violence or reacting passively to events.

• Science, Reason and the Supernatural: The novella explores the intersection of science, reason, and the supernatural. Dr. Jekyll's scientific experiments and resulting transformation demonstrate a blurred line between natural causes and supernatural forces.

Explore the significant themes present in 'Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde' including duality, good vs. evil, and repression. The quiz delves into how these themes are portrayed through the characters' struggles and relationships. Understand how societal pressures affect individual behavior and morality.