The Character Of Utterson Flashcards
(14 cards)
How does Stevenson use the character of Utterson?
To emphasize the theme of reputation and develop Jekyll’s character
Utterson represents Victorian attitudes, fears, and desires.
Describe Utterson’s physical appearance.
A man of rugged countenance, that was never lightened by a smile
This description reflects his serious nature.
What does Utterson’s behavior suggest about his character?
He is oppressed and controlled
His actions are described as ‘without relish’ and ‘soberly and gratefully.’
What does Jekyll represent in the context of society?
A product of society that acts on desires and breaks free
Jekyll’s character contrasts with Utterson’s adherence to societal norms.
What is the significance of Utterson being terrified of bad behavior?
He fears that any indiscretion might affect his life and reputation
This highlights the theme of societal judgment.
Complete the sentence: Utterson reads ‘a copy of a pious work’ and finds it filled with _______.
[starting blasphemies]
This indicates his internal conflict with religious repression.
What does the phrase ‘he was humbled to the dust’ suggest about Utterson?
He is devout and deeply concerned about morality
This phrase emphasizes his serious approach to religion.
What does Utterson’s character reveal about Victorian values?
He shows care in reputation and the fear of societal judgment
This reflects the importance placed on public perception during the Victorian era.
Was never lied by a smile… yet somehow lovable
inner moral integrity and loyalty earn him respect and affection, even without warmth or charm
Stevenson sets him up as a balanced, rational observer — someone trustworthy, yet not all-knowing. This helps the reader follow the mystery through a calm, reliable lens, even as the events around him grow darker..
“Austere with himself”
suggests self-discipline and emotional control, aligning Utterson with Victorian ideals of respectability. This repression also links to the theme of duality, as Utterson resists indulgence, unlike Jekyll, who secretly embraces it.
“A copy of a pious work, annotated in his own hand with startling blasphemies”
The phrase “pious work” symbolises Victorian values of restraint and virtue, but it is corrupted by “startling blasphemies”, suggesting a hidden, darker self. The contradiction between the sacred and profane in one object encapsulates the central theme of the novel: the conflict between outward respectability and inner depravity.
What are utterson 4 main roles
1) emphasis reputation
2) develop Jekyll character
3) represents Victorian attitudes (fears and desires)
4) narrative tool to deploy mystery
How is Utterson used as a narrative tool
His perspective is limited as he is constantly on the outside looking in as it also takes Utterson time to work things out as well as including red herrings of hyde black mailing Jekyll
Chapter 5
Stevenson uses natural imagery here to suggest that truth is trying to emerge, but is ultimately obstructed by repression and secrecy, reinforcing the novel’s persistent sense of ambiguity. “”on hillside vineyards was ready to be set free and to disperse the fog.
