The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde is indeed very much a book of its time which also has the distinction of contemporary relevance due to its exploration of universal themes.

There are many distinctively Victorian elements in the story, one of which is the rapid advancement of science. The Victorian era was an age in which enormous strides were made in all branches of natural science, leading some to believe that it was just a matter of time before all of society's problems could be solved by the efforts of scientists. It is this overweening faith in the power of science that leads Dr. Jekyll to embark upon his dangerous experiments—with tragic consequences.

Another feature of Victorian life displayed in the book is the rigidity of the British class system. On the surface, Dr. Jekyll is the epitome of the respectable English gentleman. No one would believe in a million years that someone in his position would ever be capable of carrying out the foul, depraved acts in which his demonic alter ego indulges.

By undergoing such a strange transformation, Dr. Jekyll effectively changes class, acting in a way that would normally be thought appropriate for the lower orders. Moreover, it is only by changing into the abominable Mr. Hyde that the good doctor can slough off the many inhibitions that attach to his social identity as an upper-class English gent.