Utterson Flashcards
“If he be Mr Hyde…I shall be Mr Seek”
shows his innate curiosity which propels the plot forward. It also emphasises the theme of opposites throughout the novel.
“A rugged countenance that was never lighted by a smile.”
He is reserved and unaffected by emotion.
“I shall consider it my duty to break that door.” (chapter 8)
He is investigative, reasoned and rational but feels duty-bound to protect his friend.
“Besieged by questions”
Warlike imagery shows the extent of Utterson’s curiosity
“professional honour and faith to his dead friend were stringent obligations; and the packet slept in the inmost corner of his private safe”
Friendship is valued over curiosity. This makes Utterson an even more reliable narrator.
“lover of the sane and customary sides of life” (chapter 2)
presents him as rational.
“professional honour”
He doesn’t read Lanyon’s letter, maintains his good reputation and presents him as trustworthy.
“a clouded brow”
Imagery of fog, also
“mortify a taste for vintages” (beginning)
he drinks alone to try and put himself off the pleasure of drinking itself.
“lean, long, dusty, dreary, and yet somehow loveable”
Shows how he represses his emotions and he is the model of Victorian restraint and repression - This could be stevenson criticising how men were expected to repress their emotions
