Chapter 3: Dr. Jekyll Was Quite at Ease

This chapter showcases the complex relationship between Jekyll and Hyde through Jekyll's reaction to Utterson's inquiries. Stevenson uses vivid imagery to depict Jekyll's internal struggle.

Quote: "The large, handsome face of Dr Jekyll grew pale to the lips and there came a blackness about his eye"

This description of Jekyll's physical reaction when Hyde is mentioned reveals the deep connection between the two characters.

Analysis: The juxtaposition of "pale" and "blackness" symbolizes the duality within Jekyll - the pale, respectable doctor and the dark, sinister Hyde. This visual representation of Jekyll's internal conflict brings the theme of duality of man to the forefront.

Highlight: Jekyll's dramatic reaction to the mention of Hyde suggests that he is not as "at ease" as the chapter title implies, building suspense and mystery.

The chapter also touches on the theme of reputation and societal expectations in Victorian society, as Jekyll attempts to maintain his respectable facade.

Chapter 7: The Incident at the Window

This pivotal chapter provides a glimpse of Jekyll's transformation into Hyde, witnessed by Utterson and Enfield. Stevenson uses symbolism and imagery to convey the internal struggle within Jekyll.

Quote: "Three windows were halfway open; and sitting beside it, taking the air with an infinite sadness of mien like some disconsolate prisoner, Utterson saw Jekyll"

This description of Jekyll at the window is rich with symbolism and foreshadowing.

Analysis: The three windows can be interpreted as representing Freud's theory of the psyche - the id, ego, and superego. Jekyll sitting in the middle window symbolizes his position between his good and evil natures.

Vocabulary: Mien - A person's appearance or manner, especially as an indication of their character or mood.

Highlight: The description of Jekyll as a "disconsolate prisoner" foreshadows his eventual inability to control his transformations into Hyde.

The chapter ends with a shocking transformation, cementing the connection between Jekyll and Hyde for the witnesses.

Analysis: This scene marks a turning point in the story, as Jekyll can no longer keep his secret hidden from his friends. The public nature of this transformation increases the tension and drives the plot towards its climax.

Chapter 1: The Story of the Door

This chapter introduces the mysterious Mr. Hyde through the eyes of Mr. Utterson and his friend Mr. Enfield. Stevenson uses vivid descriptions to create an aura of unease around Hyde's character.

Quote: "He must be deformed somewhere; he gives a strong sense of deformity"

This quote from Enfield highlights the inexplicable nature of Hyde's appearance. Stevenson deliberately avoids describing Hyde's physical features in detail, instead focusing on the unsettling feeling he evokes in others.

Analysis: By not specifying Hyde's deformity, Stevenson emphasizes that the true deformity lies within Hyde's mind and soul. This vagueness also adds to the mystery surrounding Hyde's character.

Highlight: The description of Hyde as giving a "strong sense of deformity" without any visible abnormalities foreshadows the theme of appearance vs. reality that runs throughout the novella.

The chapter also introduces Mr. Utterson as a rational and tolerant character, making his negative reaction to Hyde even more significant.

Vocabulary: Deformity - An abnormality or malformation in physical appearance.