Mr. Utterson: A Key Character in Jekyll and Hyde
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Updated Apr 4, 2026
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Mr Utterson Quotes in Jekyll and Hyde: Good vs Evil, Reputation, and More!
H
Hallie Gooch
@halliegooch_bwzy
Mr. Utterson: Character Analysis and Significance
Mr. Utterson, a central figure in "Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde," is a complex character who embodies Victorian values while navigating the mysterious events surrounding his friend Dr. Jekyll. His rational approach and moral compass make him an ideal guide for readers through the novella's perplexing narrative.
Key Characteristics of Mr. Utterson:
-
Quiet and reserved: Utterson builds friendships slowly and indiscriminately, reflecting his cautious nature.
-
Decisive and rational: He keeps his feet on the ground and approaches situations logically.
-
Tendency to jump to conclusions: Once Utterson forms an opinion, he often treats his assumptions as fact.
-
Respectable Victorian gentleman: As a lawyer, Utterson represents the epitome of Victorian respectability and social standing.
Quote: "Mr. Utterson the lawyer"
This simple description encapsulates Utterson's social status and professional identity, highlighting his role as a respectable figure in Victorian London.
Utterson's Importance to the Novella:
-
Provides continuity: Utterson serves as a steady presence throughout the first eight chapters as events unfold.
-
Rational perspective: His logical approach offers a grounding influence amidst the inexplicable occurrences in the story.
-
Reader's guide: Utterson's reliability makes him an ideal narrator to lead readers through the mysterious events.
-
Builds suspense: His incorrect assumptions about the situation increase the impact of the final revelations.
Highlight: Utterson's role as a rational observer makes the supernatural elements of the story even more striking when they are finally revealed.
Themes Represented by Utterson:
- Good vs. Evil: Utterson embodies the belief in inherent goodness, refusing to accept that his friend Jekyll would willingly associate with the evil Hyde.
Quote: "Poor Harry Jekyll"
This quote demonstrates Utterson's sympathy for Jekyll and his belief that his friend must be a victim of blackmail rather than willingly associating with Hyde.
- Appearance and Reputation: Utterson, like Jekyll, is deeply concerned with maintaining a respectable public image.
Quote: "Let us make a bargain to never refer to this again"
This statement reflects the Victorian preoccupation with reputation and the desire to avoid scandal at all costs.
- Duality: Utterson's character itself exhibits duality, as shown in the description of his personality.
Quote: "Backwards in sentiment; lean, long, dusty, dreary and yet somehow loveable"
This description highlights the contradictory aspects of Utterson's character, mirroring the theme of duality that runs throughout the novella.
- Religion vs. Science: Utterson's encounter with Jekyll's transformation represents the clash between traditional religious beliefs and the emerging power of science in Victorian society.
Highlight: Utterson's discovery of Jekyll and Hyde being the same person transformed by a potion symbolizes the growing influence of science over traditional beliefs.
Utterson's Role in Unraveling the Mystery:
Utterson's curiosity and rational approach drive the plot forward as he investigates the strange connection between Jekyll and Hyde. His professional skills as a lawyer, combined with his personal concern for his friend, make him uniquely suited to piece together the clues that ultimately lead to the shocking truth about Jekyll's experiments.
Example: Utterson's investigation of Dr. Jekyll's will, which leaves everything to Mr. Hyde, sets the stage for his deeper involvement in the mystery.
In conclusion, Mr. Utterson serves as a crucial lens through which readers experience the strange and terrifying events of the novella. His character embodies Victorian values while simultaneously challenging them, making him a complex and fascinating figure in the exploration of good vs evil in Jekyll and Hyde.
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Stefan S
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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
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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 Knowunity AI. 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 Knowunity AI. 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
Mr Utterson Quotes in Jekyll and Hyde: Good vs Evil, Reputation, and More!
H
Hallie Gooch
@halliegooch_bwzy
Mr. Utterson: A Key Character in Jekyll and Hyde
Mr. Utterson, the lawyer, plays a crucial role in Robert Louis Stevenson's novella "Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde". He embodies the Victorian gentleman ideal while unraveling the mystery... Show more
Mr. Utterson: Character Analysis and Significance
Mr. Utterson, a central figure in "Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde," is a complex character who embodies Victorian values while navigating the mysterious events surrounding his friend Dr. Jekyll. His rational approach and moral compass make him an ideal guide for readers through the novella's perplexing narrative.
Key Characteristics of Mr. Utterson:
-
Quiet and reserved: Utterson builds friendships slowly and indiscriminately, reflecting his cautious nature.
-
Decisive and rational: He keeps his feet on the ground and approaches situations logically.
-
Tendency to jump to conclusions: Once Utterson forms an opinion, he often treats his assumptions as fact.
-
Respectable Victorian gentleman: As a lawyer, Utterson represents the epitome of Victorian respectability and social standing.
Quote: "Mr. Utterson the lawyer"
This simple description encapsulates Utterson's social status and professional identity, highlighting his role as a respectable figure in Victorian London.
Utterson's Importance to the Novella:
-
Provides continuity: Utterson serves as a steady presence throughout the first eight chapters as events unfold.
-
Rational perspective: His logical approach offers a grounding influence amidst the inexplicable occurrences in the story.
-
Reader's guide: Utterson's reliability makes him an ideal narrator to lead readers through the mysterious events.
-
Builds suspense: His incorrect assumptions about the situation increase the impact of the final revelations.
Highlight: Utterson's role as a rational observer makes the supernatural elements of the story even more striking when they are finally revealed.
Themes Represented by Utterson:
- Good vs. Evil: Utterson embodies the belief in inherent goodness, refusing to accept that his friend Jekyll would willingly associate with the evil Hyde.
Quote: "Poor Harry Jekyll"
This quote demonstrates Utterson's sympathy for Jekyll and his belief that his friend must be a victim of blackmail rather than willingly associating with Hyde.
- Appearance and Reputation: Utterson, like Jekyll, is deeply concerned with maintaining a respectable public image.
Quote: "Let us make a bargain to never refer to this again"
This statement reflects the Victorian preoccupation with reputation and the desire to avoid scandal at all costs.
- Duality: Utterson's character itself exhibits duality, as shown in the description of his personality.
Quote: "Backwards in sentiment; lean, long, dusty, dreary and yet somehow loveable"
This description highlights the contradictory aspects of Utterson's character, mirroring the theme of duality that runs throughout the novella.
- Religion vs. Science: Utterson's encounter with Jekyll's transformation represents the clash between traditional religious beliefs and the emerging power of science in Victorian society.
Highlight: Utterson's discovery of Jekyll and Hyde being the same person transformed by a potion symbolizes the growing influence of science over traditional beliefs.
Utterson's Role in Unraveling the Mystery:
Utterson's curiosity and rational approach drive the plot forward as he investigates the strange connection between Jekyll and Hyde. His professional skills as a lawyer, combined with his personal concern for his friend, make him uniquely suited to piece together the clues that ultimately lead to the shocking truth about Jekyll's experiments.
Example: Utterson's investigation of Dr. Jekyll's will, which leaves everything to Mr. Hyde, sets the stage for his deeper involvement in the mystery.
In conclusion, Mr. Utterson serves as a crucial lens through which readers experience the strange and terrifying events of the novella. His character embodies Victorian values while simultaneously challenging them, making him a complex and fascinating figure in the exploration of good vs evil in Jekyll and Hyde.
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.
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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.
4.6/5
App Store
4.7/5
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 Knowunity AI. 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 Knowunity AI. 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