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Cover of The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

Written by Robert Louis Stevenson

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Science FictionPsychological fictionHorror talesLondon (England)Multiple personalityPhysiciansSelf-experimentation in medicine

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About this book

"The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde" by Robert Louis Stevenson is a Gothic novella written during the late 19th century. The story explores the duality of human nature through the contrasting figures of the respectable Dr. Jekyll and the malevolent Mr. Hyde, and delves into themes of morality, identity, and the struggle between good and evil. At the start of the novella, we are introduced to Mr. Utterson, a lawyer who is troubled by the mysterious arrangements in Dr. Jekyll's will, which bequeath everything to the enigmatic Mr. Hyde in the event of Jekyll's disappearance. As Utterson learns more about Hyde—particularly after a shocking incident in which Hyde tramples a child and later compensates the family with a cheque signed by Jekyll—he grows increasingly uneasy. This section sets the stage for the deepening mystery surrounding Hyde's true nature and his connection to Jekyll, as Utterson's curiosity drives him to confront the dark implications of their relationship.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 4 hours
  • intermediate
  • dark
  • mysterious
  • foreboding

Robert Louis Stevenson's 'The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde' is a chilling novella that explores the inherent duality of human nature through the story of a respected London doctor and his sinister alter ego. The narrative unfolds through the perspective of Mr. Utterson, a lawyer investigating the increasingly strange connection between his friend, Dr. Jekyll, and the malevolent Mr. Hyde. As Utterson uncovers the dark secrets behind their relationship, the story delves into themes of identity, repression, and the struggle between societal morality and primal urges. Ultimately, the novella reveals a profound and tragic experiment where one man attempts to separate the good and evil within himself, leading to a horrifying loss of control and self-destruction. Its enduring power lies in its psychological depth and its iconic portrayal of humanity's capacity for both benevolence and depravity.

“"All human beings, as we meet them, are commingled out of good and evil: and Edward Hyde, alone in the ranks of mankind, was pure evil."”

Key themes

Duality of Human Nature
The central theme, exploring the idea that every individual possesses both good and evil within them. Jekyll's experiment is an attempt to separate these two aspects, leading to the creation of Hyde, who embodies pure evil. The novella argues against the possibility of such a clean division, suggesting that these forces are inextricably linked.
Reputation and Secrecy
Set in Victorian London, the novella highlights the intense societal pressure to maintain a respectable public image, often at the cost of personal authenticity. Jekyll's entire experiment is driven by a desire to indulge his 'undignified' pleasures without compromising his esteemed reputation, leading him to create Hyde as a vessel for his secret vices.
Good vs. Evil
While related to duality, this theme specifically focuses on the active struggle between benevolent and malevolent forces, both within an individual and in society. Hyde represents unadulterated evil, while Jekyll, though flawed, embodies the struggle for good. The novella suggests that unchecked evil can grow and ultimately consume the good.

Worth discussing

How does Stevenson use the setting of London to enhance the novella's atmosphere and themes, particularly the idea of hidden darkness beneath a respectable surface?

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