The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by R. L. Stevenson

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

• Author: R. L. Stevenson​​.
• Publication Date: 1886.
• Main Characters:
  • Dr. Henry Jekyll: A respected physician and scientist.
  • Mr. Edward Hyde: A mysterious individual, seemingly devoid of morality.
  • Mr. Utterson: Lawyer and close friend of Dr. Jekyll.
  • Dr. Hastie Lanyon: Colleague of Dr. Jekyll.
  • Mr. Richard Enfield: Cousin of Utterson and witness to events involving Hyde.
• Brief Summary: Dr. Jekyll, fascinated by the duality of human nature, creates a potion that allows him to transform into Mr. Hyde, a malevolent and ruthless version of himself. As Jekyll delves into this double life, Hyde begins to commit increasingly violent acts. Utterson, concerned about the changes in Jekyll’s behavior, investigates the relationship between him and Hyde, uncovering a dark secret that threatens to destroy the doctor’s life.
• Thematic Analysis: “The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde” explores the duality of human nature and the internal struggle between good and evil. Robert Louis Stevenson reflects on each individual’s capacity to repress and unleash their darkest desires. Furthermore, the novella addresses themes such as social hypocrisy, morality, and the consequences of the unrestrained pursuit of pleasure.
• Historical Context: The book was published during the Victorian era, characterized by rigid morality and strong repression of natural impulses. The theme of duality in “The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde” can be interpreted as a critique of the Victorian society’s hypocrisy and repression, where appearances and morality were valued above the authentic expression of the individual.