Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde

Form

• Stevenson adopts the novel form for Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, incorporating elements of the Gothic genre, which is known for its sinister and mysterious atmosphere.
• The Gothic genre often features dark and enigmatic settings, aligning with the portrayal of London in the novel, with its gloomy streets and perpetual fog.
• The novel is presented in the first-person perspective, offering insights into the viewpoints of different characters, including Utterson, Dr. Lanyon, and Dr. Jekyll.

Symbolism

Symbolism is prevalent in the names of the main characters.

• Jekyll's name can be separated into "je" and "kyll", potentially signifying "I kill", with "Je" meaning "I" in French.
• Hyde's name may suggest hidden aspects, as its homonym "Hide" implies something concealed from view or an animalistic and uncivilised nature.

Symbolism of size and age is evident:

• A significant size disparity exists between Jekyll and Hyde, with Hyde being notably smaller. This size difference implies that the author perceives the evil side of human nature as inferior to the good and rational side.
• Hyde is depicted as younger and more energetic than Jekyll, indicating that this facet of human nature develops later in life, following a period of childhood innocence. It also suggests that Stevenson views this side as more exhilarating and energetic.

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Prose

Structure

• The novel is divided into ten chapters, each titled. This structure builds tension, particularly in chapters 4-8, leading to a climax.
• The narrative complexity arises from multiple narrators, with Utterson providing the primary narration, followed by Lanyon's account and Jekyll's at the end. This structure is designed to maintain the mystery until the appropriate moment.

Language

Stevenson's use of language enhances the narrative and impacts the reader.

• Stevenson employs a simile to describe Mr. Hyde as "really like Satan," directly comparing Hyde's behaviour to Satan's. This shocks the Victorian reader, given their religious beliefs and understanding of Satan's actions, highlighting Hyde's malevolence.

• Personification is used when describing the laboratory as "a certain sinister block of building thrust forward its gable on the street." This personification emphasises the unusual nature of the building and its user, creating an immediate sense of sinister undertones.

• Stevenson utilises imagery when describing Carew's dead body, highlighting the brutality of the murder scene and the insensate cruelty involved. This imagery invokes a strong sense of horror and the reader's disdain for Hyde's actions.

• Powerful verbs such as "mangled" evoke a vivid image of a brutal and unidentifiable murder scene. This elicits a strong emotional response from the reader, emphasising the cruelty of Hyde's actions.

• Onomatopoeic words like "trampling" and "shattered" convey the brutality of the murder, allowing readers to visualise the scene and imagine the sounds associated with it. This intensifies the reader's disgust and empathy for the victim while eroding any sympathy for Hyde.