The novella "Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde" explores profound themes of duality, morality, and the battle between good and evil in Victorian society. Through masterful storytelling and rich symbolism, Stevenson crafts a narrative that delves deep into human nature's complexity.
The story's central theme of duality manifests through Dr. Jekyll's internal struggle and eventual transformation into Mr. Hyde. Key quotes throughout the text highlight this conflict, particularly in Chapter 2 where Mr. Hyde is described as having "something wrong with his appearance; something displeasing, something downright detestable." This description establishes the physical manifestation of evil and reinforces the Victorian era's belief in physiognomy - the idea that outer appearance reflects inner character. In Chapter 3, the theme deepens as we learn more about Jekyll's reputation and Hyde's mysterious connection to him, with quotes highlighting the stark contrast between Jekyll's respectability and Hyde's malevolence. The exploration of themes in Jekyll and Hyde GCSE study often focuses on this duality, along with the suppression of desires in Victorian society.
The narrative structure builds tension through multiple perspectives, particularly evident in Chapter 4 where Hyde's violence escalates. The themes of science versus religion, reputation, and the urban landscape of Victorian London interweave throughout the story. The Jekyll and Hyde duality quotes and analysis reveal how Stevenson uses weather, architecture, and time of day to mirror the internal struggles of his characters. The fog-bound streets of London become a metaphor for moral ambiguity, while Jekyll's house, with its dual entrances, physically represents the split in his personality. These elements combine to create a powerful commentary on Victorian society's rigid moral codes and the dangerous consequences of repression, making it a crucial text for understanding both literary techniques and historical context.
