Mr Utterson Flashcards
Overview
In ‘the strange case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde,’ Stevenson presents Mr Utterson as a serious and rational lawyer, known for his quiet yet deeply moral nature. He is reserved, rarely showing emotion, but possesses a strong sense of duty and loyalty to his friends. Though reserved, he is determined to uncover the truth while remaining compassionate and responsible. His persistence reflects his commitment to justice, yet he struggles to comprehend the darker sides of human nature and morality.
Quotes
‘A man of rugged countenance that was never lightened by a smile.’ - Pg 1
‘If he be Mr Hyde, he had thought, “I shall be Mr Seek’ - Pg 7
‘God forgive us, God forgive us,’ - Pg 21
“I shall consider it my duty to break in that door.” - Pg 26
‘A man of rugged countenance that was never lightened by a smile’
Point - Mr Utterson is presented as a stoic, reserved figure, reflecting the Victorian ideal of self-control and moral integrity.
Choice - Stevenson’s description of Utterson’s “rugged countenance” suggests a harsh, unemotional exterior, while “never lightened by a smile” reinforces his seriousness. The phrase highlights his restraint and self-discipline, aligning with the Victorian ideal of a reserved and respectable gentleman.
Effect - Utterson’s rigid personality contrasts with the chaos of Hyde, making him a stabilising force in the novel. His lack of outward warmth also reflects the repression of emotions in Victorian society, reinforcing the theme of restraint versus hidden desires. In Victorian society, gentlemen were expected to uphold dignity and suppress emotions. Utterson’s stoicism reflects these values, positioning him as a moral guide in contrast to Jekyll, whose indulgence in hidden desires leads to his downfall.
‘If he be Mr Hyde, he had thought, “I shall be Mr Seek’
Point - Mr Utterson’s determination to uncover the truth highlights his loyalty and moral duty, contrasting with the secrecy surrounding Hyde.
Choice - Mr Utterson’s thought ‘If he be Mr Hyde, I shall be Mr Seek’ presents him as determined and persistent. Stevenson’s use of wordplay between “Hyde” and “Seek” creates a dark irony, emphasising Utterson’s determination to uncover Jekyll’s secrets. The contrast between Hyde’s concealment and Utterson’s investigation reflects the novel’s theme of secrecy.
Effect - This moment portrays Utterson as a rational, moral figure, yet his obsession with the mystery mirrors the Victorian fascination with hidden sins. His curiosity foreshadows the revelation of Jekyll’s dark double life. Victorian society valued reputation and discretion, often hiding immoral behaviours beneath a respectable facade. Utterson’s role as an investigator reflects the tension between maintaining appearances and exposing uncomfortable truths.
‘God forgive us, God forgive us,’
Point - Mr Utterson’s reaction to unsettling discoveries conveys his strong moral conscience and fear of the darker aspects of human nature.
Choice - The repetition of “God forgive us” reflects Utterson’s shock and horror at seeing Jekyll’s sudden, unnatural transformation. The religious plea suggests a moral and supernatural disturbance, reinforcing the conflict between science and religion.
Effect - The urgency of Utterson’s reaction heightens the mystery and fear surrounding Jekyll’s condition, making the reader question the true nature of his experiments. In Victorian society, science was often seen as challenging religious beliefs. Jekyll’s experiment, which distorts the natural order, would have been perceived as sinful, reinforcing fears about the consequences of defying God’s will.
“I shall consider it my duty to break in that door.”
Point - Utterson’s determination to expose the truth highlights his moral integrity and the conflict between societal discretion and the need for truth.
Choice - The declarative statement and formal tone of “I shall consider it my duty” reflects Utterson’s strong moral compass and determination to uncover the truth. The forceful imagery of “break in that door” symbolises his willingness to shatter secrecy and expose hidden truths.
Effect - This moment builds suspense, as Utterson, usually rational and restrained, takes decisive action. The reader anticipates a revelation, reinforcing the theme of secrecy. Victorian gentlemen valued discretion, but Utterson’s resolve shows how Jekyll’s case has pushed him beyond societal norms, highlighting the dangers of excessive secrecy.
