The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde Robert Louis Stevenson's 1886 gothic novella The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde is a captivating exploration of...
Robert Louis Stevenson's 1886 gothic novella The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde is a captivating exploration of the duality of human nature. Set in Victorian-era London, the story follows the respectable Dr. Jekyll and his sinister alter ego, Mr. Hyde, as they clash in a battle between good and evil impulses.
The core theme of the novella revolves around the duality of human existence. Dr. Jekyll represents the civilized, repressed side of human nature, while Mr. Hyde embodies the unbridled, animalistic desires hidden beneath the veneer of respectability. Stevenson's tale serves as a cautionary commentary on the dangers of repressing one's dark impulses, as they inevitably find a way to manifest themselves.
"There was something abnormal and misbegotten in the very essence of the creature that now faced me - something seizing, surprising and revolting." - Dr. Jekyll on Mr. Hyde
The novella also delves into the theme of reputation and the societal pressure to maintain a pristine public image. Dr. Jekyll's obsession with preserving his reputation ultimately leads to his downfall, as he succumbs to the temptation of indulging in his darker desires without consequence.
Dr. Jekyll is initially portrayed as a highly respected and benevolent physician, representing the ideals of Victorian society. However, his scientific experiments unleash the embodiment of his repressed desires, Mr. Hyde, who becomes a vessel for Jekyll's most primal and violent urges.
Mr. Hyde, on the other hand, is a grotesque and deformed figure, representing the darker side of human nature that society seeks to repress. His actions become increasingly violent and sadistic, highlighting the danger of unchecked hedonism and lack of moral restraint.
Through vivid imagery and compelling characters, Stevenson's novella serves as a poignant exploration of the complex duality of human nature, challenging readers to confront the darker aspects of their own psyches.
For further study, refer to BBC Bitesize GCSE English Literature and consult exam board specifications such as OCR GCSE English Literature for more details on assessment objectives and study guides.