Jekyll + Hyde Flashcards
(10 cards)
“Man is not truly one, but truly two.”
Analysis:
This encapsulates the central theme of duality. Jekyll argues that human nature is divided between good and evil, laying the groundwork for his experiment.
Suggests that identity is not singular but fractured, a radical idea challenging Victorian ideals of moral absolutism.
“I learned to recognise the thorough and primitive duality of man.”
Analysis:
Highlights Jekyll’s philosophical approach to human nature and his desire to explore and separate these conflicting aspects.
The word primitive implies that the darker side is innate and ancient, tied to humanity’s baser instincts.
“The moment I choose, I can be rid of Mr. Hyde.”
Analysis:
Demonstrates Jekyll’s initial belief in his control over the transformation. This overconfidence reflects his hubris and foreshadows his eventual loss of control.
Irony lies in the eventual dominance of Hyde, showing the unpredictability of tampering with human nature.
“If he be Mr. Hyde, I shall be Mr. Seek.”
Analysis:
Utterson’s witty remark reflects the motif of investigation and the pursuit of truth.
The pun emphasizes the mysterious and evasive nature of Hyde and the relentless curiosity of Utterson, which drives the narrative forward.
“He began to go wrong, wrong in the mind.”
Analysis:
Dr. Lanyon’s perspective on Jekyll hints at the scientific and moral conflict between them.
The repetition of wrong emphasizes Lanyon’s shock at Jekyll’s unorthodox experiments, reflecting Victorian fears of overstepping moral and scientific boundaries.
“Ape-like fury.”
Analysis:
Describes Hyde’s violent tendencies, emphasizing his animalistic and primal nature.
Reinforces the theme of devolution, tying Hyde to fears of regression popularized by Darwinian theories of evolution.
“The large, handsome face of Dr. Jekyll grew pale to the very lips, and there came a blackness about his eyes.”
Analysis:
The shift in Jekyll’s physical appearance reflects his internal struggle and growing guilt.
The blackness in his eyes suggests the encroachment of Hyde’s influence, symbolizing moral corruption.
“It was a night of little ease to his toiling mind, toiling in mere darkness and besieged by questions.”
Analysis:
Utterson’s mental turmoil mirrors the larger theme of hidden truths and the unknown.
The imagery of darkness and besieged suggests the oppressive nature of secrets and the fear of confronting them.
“My devil had been long caged, he came out roaring.”
Analysis:
Jekyll acknowledges that suppressing his darker impulses only made them more powerful when released.
The metaphor of a caged devil implies the destructive potential of repressed desires, resonating with the Victorian fear of unchecked passions.
“I am the chief of sinners, I am the chief of sufferers also.”
Analysis:
Jekyll’s confession highlights his dual role as both the perpetrator and victim of his own experiment.
Suggests the paradox of his situation: he is tormented by the consequences of his actions while acknowledging his moral failure.
