'The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde' is a story about the desire for control.' How far do you agree with this view? Explore at least two moments from the novel to support your ideas. - OCR - GCSE English Literature - Question 14 - 2020 - Paper 1

In Robert Louis Stevenson's 'The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde', the theme of control figures prominently, illustrated through the character’s struggles and the choices they make.

Moment 1: Dr. Jekyll's Experimentation

One significant moment illustrating the desire for control is Dr. Jekyll's experimentation with his dual identity. Jekyll's desire to control his darker impulses leads him to create a potion that transforms him into Mr. Hyde. This act symbolizes his yearning for autonomy over his baser instincts, yet it paradoxically leads to his loss of control. Initially, he believes he can separate his two selves, maintaining dominance over Hyde; however, as the story progresses, we see Hyde asserting himself uncontrollably. This moment encapsulates the tragic irony of Jekyll’s desire for control, showcasing that in his attempt to master himself, he ultimately loses control over his identity.

Moment 2: The Transformation of Mr. Hyde

Another pivotal moment occurs during Hyde’s violent encounters. The transformation from Jekyll to Hyde highlights the struggle for control that exists not just within Jekyll, but also in the societal context surrounding them. Hyde represents not only Jekyll's suppressed desires but also the chaotic elements of humanity that society tries to keep at bay. When Hyde commits violent acts, it reflects the uncontrollable nature of those repressed desires spilling into society. Here, Stevenson critiques the Victorian endeavor to impose control and order, showcasing that such repression often leads to more chaos.

Through these two moments, Stevenson intricately weaves the theme of control within the narrative, illustrating how the desire for control ultimately leads to one's downfall.