Utterson Flashcards
The Dual nature of Uttersons association to masculinity quote
HE HAD ENJOYED THE THEATRE, HAD NOT CROSSED THE DOORS OF ONE IN TWENTY YEARS
- Theatre has a suspicion of femininity, as it focuses on the subjective
- Masculinity is therefore dual natured as it involves austerity to the extent in which you conceal your own pleasures
Utterson attracted to misdeeds, how does this link to masculinity and hypocrisy
ALMOST WITH ENVY, AT THE HIGH PRESSURE OF SPIRITS INVOLVED IN THEIR MISDEEDS
- Another example of his attraction to performance with their PRESSURE OF HIGH SPIRITS
Interpretation of Utterson and hypocrisy
–> Contextual link
Arguably, Stevenson uses the construct of U as a representation of Victorian gentlemen at the time.
His hypocrisy demonstrates that the inclination to sin is within all, everyman suffers from desire (The fall of man and the original sin)
- however some are not as capable as maintaining austerity as he is.
(Links to previous card)
Calvinist principles
Belief that morality requires a perfection which Stevenson believed to be impossible as it contradicted human nature.
Uttersons attraction towards down-going men quote
TO BE THE LAST REPUTABLE AQQAINTENCE IS THE LIVES OF DOWN-GOING MEN
Links to theme of friendship, and his relationship with Jekyll.
Aswell as his hidden inclination towards evil.
Interpretation 1 - bad
Why might Utterson want to be associated wit down-going men
He deliberetley seeks them in hope of somewhat gaining the pleasure in the evil of their misdeeds through them.
Interpretation 2 - Morally sound
Why might Utterson want to be associated with down- going men
He is a man of significant morals whom acts on his inclination to HELP rather than REFORM
- Subsequently this is his duty as a lawyer, he is employed to help, as the duty of reform is left to other proffesions.
Duality in Uttersons description versus his role in the play - Quote
What might Stevenson be implying.
EMBARRASED IN DISCOURSE
Ironic as he is the social pivot within the novella, which ultimateley is what makes him the narrator.
This may Stevenson re-enforcing the idea of never trusting anything at surface level, his seemingly well-connected status is superficial.
What makes Utterson the ideal associate/Friend
QUOTE
DUSTY DREARY AND YET SOMEHOW LOVEABLE.
LOVABLE
- Evokes the question as to what makes Utterson so attractive, maybe his willingness to turn a blind eye to misdeeds
Utterson turning a blind eye to misdeeds quote
AN INCLINATION TO HELP RATHER THAN REFORM
Quote suggesting Utterson is not as rational as he may seem
DRANK GIN… TO MORTIFY A TASTE FOR VINTAGES
Ironic that he chooses gin as his more austere option, due to it having a higher alcohol content then wine.
The more intoxicated you are, the higher chances there are of you making irrational decisions.
Alternative interpretation of Utterson drinking Gin
Depsite Gins higher alcohol content, he is more sober in his choice of beverages, as gis was commonly associated with the lower class at the time.
