Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

Definition

Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde is a novel by Robert Louis Stevenson that explores the dual nature of humanity through the characters of Dr. Jekyll, a well-respected scientist, and Mr. Hyde, his darker alter ego. The story illustrates the internal struggle between good and evil, showcasing how one individual can embody both sides of human nature. This conflict highlights the complexities of morality and the potential for darkness that exists within everyone.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The transformation from Dr. Jekyll to Mr. Hyde symbolizes the struggle between a person's respectable identity and their hidden, darker impulses.
2. Stevenson wrote the novel in response to Victorian society's strict moral codes, challenging the idea that people can be easily categorized as entirely good or evil.
3. Mr. Hyde represents the uninhibited id, acting on primal instincts without consideration for social norms or morality.
4. The story raises questions about scientific ethics, particularly regarding the consequences of experimentation on the self and societal standards.
5. The tragic fate of Dr. Jekyll serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of neglecting one's darker side and the ultimate conflict between human desires and moral integrity.

Review Questions

• How does Stevenson portray the conflict between good and evil through the characters of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde?
  • Stevenson portrays the conflict between good and evil by depicting Dr. Jekyll as a kind and respectable figure who struggles with his darker impulses represented by Mr. Hyde. The transformation that occurs when Jekyll takes his potion emphasizes the duality within him, showcasing how he can embody both virtuous behavior and malevolent actions. This internal battle reflects broader themes about human nature, suggesting that everyone has the capacity for both good and evil.
• In what ways does Dr. Jekyll's experimentation with his identity raise ethical concerns regarding scientific exploration?
  • Dr. Jekyll's experimentation raises ethical concerns by demonstrating the potential consequences of scientific inquiry that disregards moral implications. By creating a potion that separates his good and evil sides, Jekyll prioritizes personal freedom over responsibility, leading to disastrous outcomes. This scenario prompts readers to consider the limits of scientific exploration and whether it is justifiable to manipulate human nature for self-interest.
• Evaluate how the themes of duality and repression in 'Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde' reflect societal views on morality during the Victorian era.
  • The themes of duality and repression in 'Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde' illustrate Victorian society's struggle with rigid moral expectations while grappling with hidden desires. The stark contrast between Jekyll's public persona and Hyde's wild behavior reflects societal pressures to conform while simultaneously acknowledging that dark impulses exist within everyone. This dynamic prompts readers to reconsider the simplistic classification of individuals as wholly good or evil, revealing deeper complexities in human morality that challenge Victorian norms.

Related terms

Duality: The concept of duality refers to the existence of two opposing forces or aspects within a single entity, often represented as good and evil.

Repression: Repression is a psychological defense mechanism where individuals suppress their desires or emotions to conform to societal norms, leading to internal conflict.

Morality: Morality involves principles concerning the distinction between right and wrong or good and evil behavior, influencing an individual's choices and actions.