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:

1. Quiet and reserved: Utterson builds friendships slowly and indiscriminately, reflecting his cautious nature.

2. Decisive and rational: He keeps his feet on the ground and approaches situations logically.

3. Tendency to jump to conclusions: Once Utterson forms an opinion, he often treats his assumptions as fact.

4. 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:

1. Provides continuity: Utterson serves as a steady presence throughout the first eight chapters as events unfold.

2. Rational perspective: His logical approach offers a grounding influence amidst the inexplicable occurrences in the story.

3. Reader's guide: Utterson's reliability makes him an ideal narrator to lead readers through the mysterious events.

4. 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:

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.