Jekyll and Hyde Context and Plot

Question 1

briefly describe the plot of Jekyll and Hyde, and what it reflects in the contemporary society:

Answer 1

• about a respectable doctor, Henry Jekyll, who transforms into the evil Mr Hyde
• it reflects the strict values of Victorian society, in which people were expected to be restrained and appear respectable at all times

Question 2

what is J&H’s message?

Answer 2

• about human nature, everyone has good and evil inside of them
• if people explore their dark side, it can lead to problems. hiding or denying it also leads to problems

Question 3

describe the context of Robert Louis Stevenson:

Answer 3

• influenced by strict Christian beliefs (ideas of sin)
• interested in the behaviour of Victorian gentlemen - the way they maintained an outwardly respectable appearance but secretly indulged in immoral behaviour
• particularly fascinated by the life of Deacon Brodie, a respectable cabinet maker who led a secret life as a robber

Question 4

describe Victorian gentlemen:

Answer 4

• important to look respectable. people hid their true feelings, especially if they are immoral/improper. kept their less respectable desires and sinful behaviour secret
• reputation was also very important. this could be ruined if they were seen doing anything not respectable
• didn’t talk about anything that may damage their reputation/upset civilised society

Question 5

how was a Victorian gentleman expected to be like, and how would that affect their lives?

Answer 5

• important profession (army officer, church minister, doctor, lawyer)
• ## expected to have strong morals and be kind particularly towards poorer people. plenty saw this as the less important part, however
• brings many benefits - enter well-paid professions like medicine and law, gain the respect of rich clients
• a gentleman could use his contacts to arrange good marriages for his daughters and well-paid jobs for his sons