Dr. Lanyon is a pivotal character in Robert Louis Stevenson's... Show more
Biology
SociologySign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
967
•
29 Dec 2025
•
Dr Lanyon Character Analysis and Quotes - Jekyll and Hyde Essay & PDF
Dr. Lanyon: A Character Analysis
Dr. Lanyon is a crucial character in Robert Louis Stevenson's "Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde," serving as both a foil to Dr. Jekyll and a representation of the conservative scientific establishment in Victorian England. This analysis explores Lanyon's character, his relationship with Jekyll, and his impact on the novel's themes.
Highlight: Dr. Lanyon is initially described as "a hearty, healthy, dapper red-faced gentleman," emphasizing his respectability and vigor.
Lanyon's character is defined by his unwavering commitment to rational, traditional scientific methods. This stance puts him at odds with Dr. Jekyll's more experimental approach, which Lanyon dismisses as "unscientific balderdash." Their disagreement leads to a decade-long estrangement, illustrating the novel's theme of the conflict between conservative and progressive scientific ideologies.
Quote: "Henry Jekyll became too fanciful for me. He began to go wrong, wrong in mind..."
This quote reveals Lanyon's perspective on Jekyll's research, showcasing his disapproval and concern for his former friend's mental state. It also foreshadows the dangerous nature of Jekyll's experiments.
Lanyon's role in the story takes a dramatic turn when he witnesses Hyde's transformation back into Jekyll. This event serves as a pivotal moment in the novel, challenging Lanyon's rational worldview and ultimately leading to his demise.
Quote: "I have had a shock and I shall never recover..."
Lanyon's inability to reconcile what he has seen with his understanding of science leads to a rapid decline in his health, both physical and mental. This deterioration is vividly described in the novel, contrasting sharply with his initial portrayal as a robust and healthy man.
Highlight: "The rosy man had grown pale; his flesh had fallen away; he was visibly balder and older."
Despite his shock and subsequent illness, Lanyon remains loyal to Jekyll by keeping the secret of his transformation. This loyalty speaks to Lanyon's character and the strength of their former friendship, even in the face of profound disagreement and distress.
Quote: "I wish to see no more of Dr Jekyll... I am quite done with that person; and beg you will spare me any allusion to one whom I regard as dead."
This statement underscores the profound impact of Lanyon's experience, illustrating how the revelation has shattered his worldview and his relationship with Jekyll.
In conclusion, Dr. Lanyon's character analysis reveals him to be a complex figure whose arc explores themes of scientific ethics, the limits of rational understanding, and the consequences of confronting the inexplicable. His tragic fate serves as a warning about the dangers of pushing the boundaries of science and the potential cost of knowledge.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Most popular content: Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde
Most popular content in English Literature
Most popular content
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Dr Lanyon Character Analysis and Quotes - Jekyll and Hyde Essay & PDF
Dr. Lanyon is a pivotal character in Robert Louis Stevenson's "Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde," serving as a foil to Dr. Jekyll and representing the conservative scientific establishment of Victorian England. His character arc illustrates the devastating... Show more
Dr. Lanyon: A Character Analysis
Dr. Lanyon is a crucial character in Robert Louis Stevenson's "Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde," serving as both a foil to Dr. Jekyll and a representation of the conservative scientific establishment in Victorian England. This analysis explores Lanyon's character, his relationship with Jekyll, and his impact on the novel's themes.
Highlight: Dr. Lanyon is initially described as "a hearty, healthy, dapper red-faced gentleman," emphasizing his respectability and vigor.
Lanyon's character is defined by his unwavering commitment to rational, traditional scientific methods. This stance puts him at odds with Dr. Jekyll's more experimental approach, which Lanyon dismisses as "unscientific balderdash." Their disagreement leads to a decade-long estrangement, illustrating the novel's theme of the conflict between conservative and progressive scientific ideologies.
Quote: "Henry Jekyll became too fanciful for me. He began to go wrong, wrong in mind..."
This quote reveals Lanyon's perspective on Jekyll's research, showcasing his disapproval and concern for his former friend's mental state. It also foreshadows the dangerous nature of Jekyll's experiments.
Lanyon's role in the story takes a dramatic turn when he witnesses Hyde's transformation back into Jekyll. This event serves as a pivotal moment in the novel, challenging Lanyon's rational worldview and ultimately leading to his demise.
Quote: "I have had a shock and I shall never recover..."
Lanyon's inability to reconcile what he has seen with his understanding of science leads to a rapid decline in his health, both physical and mental. This deterioration is vividly described in the novel, contrasting sharply with his initial portrayal as a robust and healthy man.
Highlight: "The rosy man had grown pale; his flesh had fallen away; he was visibly balder and older."
Despite his shock and subsequent illness, Lanyon remains loyal to Jekyll by keeping the secret of his transformation. This loyalty speaks to Lanyon's character and the strength of their former friendship, even in the face of profound disagreement and distress.
Quote: "I wish to see no more of Dr Jekyll... I am quite done with that person; and beg you will spare me any allusion to one whom I regard as dead."
This statement underscores the profound impact of Lanyon's experience, illustrating how the revelation has shattered his worldview and his relationship with Jekyll.
In conclusion, Dr. Lanyon's character analysis reveals him to be a complex figure whose arc explores themes of scientific ethics, the limits of rational understanding, and the consequences of confronting the inexplicable. His tragic fate serves as a warning about the dangers of pushing the boundaries of science and the potential cost of knowledge.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
24
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay
Similar content
Macbeth Thematic Quotations
Explore key quotations from Shakespeare's 'Macbeth' organized by themes such as Ambition, Bravery, Betrayal, Madness/Guilt, Kingship, and the Relationship between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth. This resource is essential for deepening your understanding of the play's complex characters and themes, perfect for exam preparation and literary analysis.
English Literature10
Key Quotes: Romeo & Juliet
Explore essential quotes from Acts 1 to 5 of Shakespeare's 'Romeo and Juliet', highlighting key themes such as love, fate, and family conflict. This summary provides insights into character motivations and pivotal moments in the play, making it a valuable resource for students studying this classic tragedy.
English Literature12
Macbeth Act 1 Scene 7 Analysis
Explore the pivotal Act 1 Scene 7 of Shakespeare's Macbeth, focusing on themes of ambition, guilt, and masculinity. This analysis delves into Lady Macbeth's manipulation of Macbeth, the moral implications of their plot against King Duncan, and the psychological turmoil faced by both characters. Ideal for students studying Shakespearean literature and character dynamics.
English Literature10
Poppies Poem Analysis
Explore a detailed analysis of 'Poppies' by Jane Weir, focusing on themes of grief, memory, and the impact of war. This study note covers key literary devices, including free verse, enjambment, and metaphor, while examining the emotional journey of a mother as she navigates her son's departure and the haunting memories of loss. Ideal for GCSE English Literature students preparing for exams.
English Literature10
Othello Act 1 Scene 2 Analysis
Explore the pivotal moments of Othello Act 1 Scene 2, where Othello faces Brabantio's accusations and showcases his confidence amidst political turmoil. This summary highlights key themes of race, power dynamics, and personal integrity in Shakespeare's work. Ideal for students studying character development and plot progression.
English Literature12
Most popular content: Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde
Most popular content in English Literature
Most popular content
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user