jekkyl and hyde Flashcards
duality
“Man is not truly one but truly two” chapter 10
Internal Struggle: The quote encapsulates the central theme of duality by suggesting that every individual is composed of two distinct and often conflicting aspects of their personality. In the case of Dr. Jekyll, this duality is manifested in his struggle between his virtuous, respectable self and his darker, more sinister alter ego, Mr. Hyde. This internal conflict mirrors the broader theme of duality throughout the novel.
Moral Ambiguity: The quote underscores the moral ambiguity inherent in human nature by suggesting that individuals are capable of both good and evil. Dr. Jekyll’s experiment to separate his two selves serves as a metaphor for the internal battle between morality and immorality, virtue and vice, that all individuals grapple with to varying degrees. This exploration of moral duality highlights the complexity of human behavior and the blurred lines between right and wrong.
“I learned to recognize the thorough and primitive duality of man.” - Dr. Jekyll, Chapter 10
Recognition of Inner Conflict: Dr. Jekyll’s statement acknowledges his understanding of the inherent duality within human nature. By describing it as “thorough and primitive,” he emphasizes the deep-rooted and fundamental nature of this duality. This recognition underscores the central theme of the novel, which explores the internal struggle between opposing impulses and desires within the human psyche.
Personal Discovery: The quote reflects Dr. Jekyll’s personal journey of self-discovery and introspection. Through his scientific experiments and subsequent transformations into Mr. Hyde, he has come to understand the dual nature of humanity firsthand. This revelation marks a significant moment of insight for Dr. Jekyll, as he grapples with the implications of his discoveries and their impact on his identity.
“the horror of my other self.” - Dr. Jekyll, Chapter 10
Recognition of a Separate Identity: Dr. Jekyll’s description of his alter ego, Mr. Hyde, as “my other self” highlights the dual nature of his identity. It suggests that Hyde is not merely a facet of Dr. Jekyll’s personality but a distinct and separate entity. This recognition underscores the theme of duality by emphasizing the coexistence of two contrasting personas within the same individual.
Horror and Disgust: Dr. Jekyll’s characterization of Hyde as “the horror” reflects his feelings of fear, revulsion, and disgust towards his darker self. Despite initially reveling in the freedom and liberation that Hyde’s persona afforded him, Dr. Jekyll ultimately comes to view his alter ego with horror and repulsion as he witnesses the increasingly depraved and monstrous actions committed by Hyde. This internal conflict between attraction and repulsion towards his dual identity underscores the psychological and moral complexities inherent in the theme of duality.
“It was Hyde, after all, and Hyde alone, that was guilty.” - Dr. Jekyll, Chapter 10
Recognition of Responsibility: Dr. Jekyll’s assertion that “It was Hyde, after all, and Hyde alone, that was guilty” highlights his acknowledgment of the distinct identities and actions of his alter ego, Mr. Hyde. By attributing guilt solely to Hyde, Dr. Jekyll absolves himself of responsibility for the crimes committed by his darker self. This division of culpability underscores the theme of duality by emphasizing the separate and autonomous nature of Hyde’s persona.
Internal Struggle: The quote reflects Dr. Jekyll’s ongoing internal struggle with his dual identity. Despite initially viewing Hyde as a means of indulging in forbidden desires without consequence, Dr. Jekyll comes to recognize the moral and ethical implications of his actions. By disavowing responsibility for Hyde’s deeds, he attempts to distance himself from the darker aspects of his own nature, highlighting the internal conflict and turmoil inherent in the theme of duality.
evil
“I knew myself, at the first breath of this new life, to be more wicked, tenfold more wicked, sold a slave to my original evil.” - Dr. Jekyll, Chapter 10
Self-Awareness of Evil: Dr. Jekyll’s admission that he is “more wicked, tenfold more wicked” after transforming into Mr. Hyde reveals his awareness of the darker aspects of his nature. He recognizes that his alter ego, Mr. Hyde, embodies the evil desires and impulses that he suppresses in his normal persona. This self-awareness is crucial to understanding the theme of evil because it demonstrates that evil exists within individuals, often hidden beneath the surface.
The Struggle Against Evil: Dr. Jekyll’s description of himself as “sold a slave to my original evil” conveys the idea of being enslaved by one’s own wickedness. Despite his initial intentions to separate his good and evil selves, Dr. Jekyll finds himself increasingly controlled and dominated by the malevolent urges of Mr. Hyde. This struggle against the forces of evil within himself is a central theme in the novel, illustrating the constant battle between morality and immorality, virtue and vice.
“I am quite sure of him…I could see that, for a moment, he was staggered.” - Mr. Utterson, Chapter 1
Recognition of Evil Behavior: Mr. Utterson’s certainty about Mr. Hyde’s character suggests that he perceives something unsettling or malevolent about him. His ability to discern Mr. Hyde’s true nature indicates his awareness of evil and his intuition regarding the presence of sinister forces at work.
Emotional Response to Evil: Mr. Utterson’s observation that Mr. Hyde was “staggered” implies that he witnessed a moment of vulnerability or weakness in Hyde’s demeanor. This response could be interpreted as evidence of the evil within Hyde, as it suggests that even he, as a representation of darkness and depravity, is not immune to moments of unease or doubt.
“If he be Mr. Hyde, I shall be Mr. Seek.” - Mr. Utterson, Chapter 2
Investigation and Pursuit of Truth: Mr. Utterson’s statement reflects his determination to uncover the truth behind Mr. Hyde’s mysterious and sinister actions. By declaring himself “Mr. Seek,” he positions himself as a seeker of truth and justice, indicating his commitment to unraveling the mystery surrounding Hyde’s identity and behavior. This pursuit of truth is essential in confronting and ultimately overcoming the evil that Hyde represents.
Symbolic Opposition to Evil: The contrast between “Mr. Seek” and “Mr. Hyde” symbolizes the opposition between good and evil within the novel. Mr. Utterson’s self-assigned moniker represents his role as a force for righteousness and morality, while Mr. Hyde embodies darkness and depravity. Through this declaration, Mr. Utterson aligns himself with the forces of good in direct opposition to the evil represented by Hyde, signaling his determination to confront and combat it.
“I am quite done with that person; and I beg that you will spare me any allusion to one whom I regard as dead.” - Dr. Jekyll, Chapter 9
Rejection of Evil Identity: Dr. Jekyll’s statement reflects his desire to distance himself from his alter ego, Mr. Hyde, whom he regards as a personification of his darker impulses and desires. By declaring himself “quite done with that person” and requesting to be spared any mention of Hyde, Jekyll expresses his determination to separate himself from the evil deeds and consequences associated with his alter ego.
Acknowledgment of Consequences: Dr. Jekyll’s plea to be spared from any allusion to Hyde underscores his recognition of the destructive impact that his alter ego has had on his life and the lives of others. It reflects his understanding of the moral and psychological toll of succumbing to evil impulses and the need to distance himself from the consequences of his actions.
utterson being gentalman
“He was austere with himself; drank gin when he was alone, to mortify a taste for vintages.” - Chapter 1
“His affections, like ivy, were the growth of time.” - Chapter 1
“He was never more disappointed than now, when he sounded Mr. Utterson.” - Chapter 1
“He was humble.” - Chapter 1
