Key Quotes on Secrecy and Reputation Flashcards
(2 cards)
“Though he enjoyed the theatre, [Mr Utterson] had not crossed the doors of one for twenty years” – Narrator, Chapter I
This quote is from Chapter I of the novella and describes the character of Utterson
Analysis
Stevenson presents Utterson as a highly moral and devout Christian and he is depicted as a model Victorian gentleman
He is described as being “austere with himself” and that he restricting his pleasures and even though he enjoys attending the theatre, he had not frequented one for twenty years, due to their somewhat poor reputation
This quote suggests that Utterson has repressed his desire for theatre as perhaps the enjoyment of theatre may lead him to sinful thoughts
“something eminently human beaconed in his eye”- Narrator, Chapter I
This quote is from Chapter I of the novella and describes the character of Utterson
Analysis
Gabriel Utterson is presented as having “an approved tolerance for others” and Stevenson suggests he is a kind and genial character
Stevenson presents Utterson as a respectable lawyer and as a trustworthy, discreet and loyal friend to Jekyll
He is presented as both rational and calm and through his objective perspective, Stevenson enables the reader to judge the evidence alongside him
