Explore how Stevenson presents an incident that is shocking, in this extract and elsewhere in the novel - OCR - GCSE English Literature - Question 7 - 2022 - Paper 1

In this extract, Stevenson showcases the shocking transformation of Hyde into Dr. Jekyll through vivid imagery and intense emotional responses. Dr. Lanyon’s reaction conveys sheer terror as he witnesses the supernatural event. The immediate shift from a stable identity to a grotesque transformation captures the essence of horror. Lanyon's description of Hyde’s features melting and altering creates a visceral sense of dread.

Additionally, the repetition of 'O God!' emphasizes Lanyon's shock and disbelief, reflecting how the transformation destabilizes his understanding of reality. This moment serves as a critical turning point, highlighting the themes of duality and the monstrous within human nature.

Elsewhere in the novel, similar shocking incidents occur, such as the murder of Sir Danvers Carew, which further illustrates the consequences of Jekyll's experiments. Victims of Jekyll's darker side, like Carew, symbolize the collateral damage caused by the struggle between his dual identities. Thus, Stevenson effectively weaves these moments of horror throughout the narrative, reinforcing the novel's exploration of the human psyche.