Character Analysis of Mr. Hyde
Robert Louis Stevenson's portrayal of Mr. Hyde in "The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde" is a masterful exploration of the darker aspects of human nature. The author employs various literary techniques to create a character that embodies the concept of evil and challenges the Victorian ideals of propriety and morality.
Quote: "trampled calmly"
This oxymoron is a prime example of Stevenson's Trampled calmly technique, which effectively illustrates the duality of man meaning. The juxtaposition of "trampled" and "calmly" encapsulates the internal conflict within Jekyll/Hyde, where violent actions are carried out with unsettling composure.
Highlight: The phrase "trampled calmly" would have deeply disturbed a Victorian audience, as it suggests a supernatural and immoral force at work.
The description of Hyde's actions provides a chilling Trampled calmly analysis. The fact that Hyde can commit such a violent act without any emotional response demonstrates his complete lack of empathy and moral compass.
Quote: "Like some damned juggernaut"
This simile further emphasizes Hyde's unstoppable and destructive nature, drawing parallels to religious concepts of damnation and evil.
Vocabulary: Physiognomy - The assessment of a person's character or personality from their outer appearance, especially the face.
Stevenson utilizes the concept of physiognomy, popular in Victorian times, to reinforce Hyde's evil nature through his physical appearance. This is evident in the Description of Mr Hyde's appearance as having "an imprint of deformity and decay."
Example: The phrase "ape-like fury" is an instance of zoomorphism, comparing Hyde to an animal and suggesting a regression to a more primitive state.
This animalistic Hyde Victorian audience portrayal would have resonated strongly with readers familiar with Darwin's theory of evolution, implying that Hyde represents a devolution of human nature.
Definition: Duality - The quality or state of having two different or opposite parts or elements.
The novella explores the theme of duality extensively, suggesting that every individual, particularly gentlemen of Victorian society, harbors a hidden, darker side. This idea is encapsulated in the notion that "THERE IS A HYDE IN EVERY GENTLEMAN."
Highlight: Hyde's physical description as "something troglodytic" and "smaller and less respectable than others" reinforces Victorian class prejudices and the belief in the superiority of the upper classes.
The Hyde character analysis reveals him to be a complex embodiment of repressed desires and societal fears. His actions, such as "clubbed him to the earth," demonstrate a primal, violent nature that stands in stark contrast to the civilized facade of Victorian society.
In conclusion, Stevenson's portrayal of Hyde serves as a powerful critique of Victorian society's repression and hypocrisy, while also exploring timeless themes of good versus evil and the duality inherent in human nature.
