Appearances and Duality

The theme of appearances versus reality is central to the novella, particularly in the portrayal of its two main characters, Jekyll and Hyde. Stevenson challenges the Victorian belief in a clear dichotomy between good and evil, suggesting instead that humans are a mixture of both.

Jekyll's description of Hyde reveals the complexity of human nature:

Quote: "None the less natural to me because they were the expression, and bore the stamp, of lower elements in my soul"

This introspection highlights the idea that evil exists within everyone, only becoming noticeable when manifested externally, as in Hyde's case.

The physical description of Jekyll himself reinforces the theme of duality:

Quote: "A large, well-made, smooth-faced man of fifty with something of a slyish cast perhaps, but every mark of capacity and kindness"

The doubt implied by "perhaps" suggests that appearances can be deceiving, and that even respectable citizens may harbor darker truths beneath the surface.

Highlight: Stevenson challenges the notion that one can determine a person's moral character simply by their appearance, emphasizing the need to judge based on actions rather than looks.

Page 7: Sexuality and Repression

The narrative addresses Victorian society's treatment of sexuality and repression.

Highlight: The text's focus on male relationships suggests deeper themes about sexuality and society.

Example: The absence of detailed descriptions of Hyde's activities implies censored content about sexuality.

Definition: The concept of repression is explored through Jekyll's creation of Hyde as an outlet for forbidden desires.

Women and Femininity

Stevenson's portrayal of women in "The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde" reflects the Victorian literature portrayal of women of the time, often presenting them in a negative light. The author uses female characters to highlight the hypocrisy of men and society at large.

The maid who witnesses Sir Danvers Carew's murder is depicted in a way that mocks traditional female characters in Gothic literature. Her reaction to the violent scene is described with a hint of satire:

Quote: "Never (she used to say, with streaming tears, when she narrated that experience), never had she felt more at peace with all men"

This portrayal undermines the character's credibility, suggesting that she delights in retelling the gruesome story rather than being genuinely horrified by it. Stevenson further mocks the stereotypical female response:

Quote: "At the horror of these sights and sounds, the maid fainted"

The author's description of women in Soho presents a stereotypical and misogynistic view:

Quote: "And many women of different nationalities passing out, key in hand, to have a morning glass"

This portrayal suggests that all women in Soho are alcoholics, further reinforcing negative stereotypes.

Highlight: The exclusion of women from the main characters serves to emphasize the hypocrisy of men in Victorian society.

Hyde's housekeeper is described in a manner that equates women's evil nature with that of men:

Quote: "She had an evil face, smoothed by hypocrisy; but her manners were excellent"

This description suggests that while women's evil can be seen on their faces, men's evil remains hidden, further complicating the theme of appearances versus reality.