5 Quotes Dr Jekyll And Mr Hyde Flashcards
Theme: Duality of Human Nature
Quote: “Man is not truly one, but truly two.” (Dr. Jekyll, Chapter 10)
Dr. Jekyll confesses to his internal struggle in his confession letter. This moment highlights the theme of duality, where Jekyll acknowledges the coexistence of both good and evil within him, and the impossibility of fully reconciling these two aspects of his personality.
Theme: Good vs. Evil
• Quote: “I am very low, very low; I am a poor soul, a lost soul.” (Mr. Hyde, Chapter 2)
Hyde is described after a violent incident, reinforcing the contrast between the innocent Jekyll and the immoral Hyde. Hyde’s dark nature embodies pure evil, highlighting the theme of the constant battle between good and evil within a person.
Theme: Reputation and Social Expectations
• Quote: “This is a private matter, and I beg of you to let it sleep.” (Dr. Jekyll to Utterson, Chapter 3)
When Mr. Utterson confronts Jekyll about his connection to Hyde, Jekyll’s insistence on keeping the matter private demonstrates his obsession with maintaining a respectable public image, even at the cost of personal truth.
Theme: The Limitations of Science and Knowledge
• Quote: “I was slowly losing hold of my original and better self, and becoming slowly incorporated with my second and worse.” (Dr. Jekyll, Chapter 10)
Jekyll writes about the gradual loss of control as he continues to experiment with his transformation into Hyde. This highlights the theme of the dangers of unrestrained scientific curiosity and how knowledge can be destructive when it oversteps ethical boundaries.
Secrecy and Repression
• Quote: “The moment I choose, I can be rid of Mr. Hyde.” (Dr. Jekyll, Chapter 10)
Jekyll’s belief that he can control Hyde represents the theme of repression and the illusion of control. However, as the novel progresses, it becomes clear that Jekyll cannot suppress or fully control his darker side, symbolizing the destructive effects of repressing one’s true nature.
