🟤 Jekyll and Hyde: Themes

Question 1

What key themes are explored in J&H?

Answer 1

• Duality
• Good and Evil
• Secrecy and Reputation
• Science and Religion

Question 2

When does the theme of Duality become fully evident in the novella?

Answer 2

Final chapter

Question 3

Which character does Stevenson primarily present the theme of Duality in?

Answer 3

Jekyll

Question 4

How does Stevenson present the theme of Duality in Jekyll?

Answer 4

• As his inner sinister desires + outward respectable persona are in conflict with each other, leading to his creation of Hyde
• Hints at his cunning + secretive + deceitful nature when first described

Question 5

Give some evidence to show that the ‘two personas of Jekyll are in conflict with each other which leads to his creation of Hyde’

Answer 5

• Hyde appears in the narrative before Jekyll which reinforces the reader’s perception that he is a separate entity rather than merely the alter-ego of Jekyll
• Jekyll admits in the final chapter of the novella, that without Hyde, Jekyll lives a life of “profound duplicity”
• Jekyll and Hyde’s handwriting is the same but slants opposite ways - shows duality

Question 6

Give some evidence to show that Stevenson presents the theme of Duality in Jekyll by:

‘Hinting at his cunning + secretive + deceitful nature when first described’

Answer 6

Jekyll is not simply portrayed as a purely good character, which reinforces Stevenson’s idea that human nature itself is both complex and multifaceted

Question 7

Give some evidence to show that Stevenson presents the theme of Duality in Jekyll as:

‘Jekyll finds himself living a double life and he is unable to reconcile the two sides of his character’

Answer 7

• Wishes to be a respected doctor adhering to the highest moral standards
• However, he also yearns to engage in malevolent acts

Question 8

How does the setting (London) in J&H reflet duality?

Answer 8

Presents London with contrasting descriptions where affluent streets exist next to areas of degradation and poverty

Question 9

How does Jekyll’s house reflect duality?

Answer 9

• Presents the door at the front as having a “great air of wealth and comfort” leading to the reputable Jekyll
  —> while the door at the back, which has an impression of “sordid negligence” leads to the repugnant Hyde
• Door is used as a metaphor for the inner struggles between their two identities
  —> Uses this to comment on the deceptive outward appearance of upper Victorian society