illustration of a face with two separate halves, one good and one evil, located above the fumes of a potion

The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

by Robert Louis Stevenson

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Themes: Good and Evil

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Stevenson focuses mainly on the struggle between good and evil within Jekyll's soul in the novel. In his book about Stevenson, G. B. Stern argues that the novel is "a symbolic portrayal of the dual nature of man, with the moral inverted: not to impress us by the victory of good over evil, but to warn us of the strength and ultimate triumph of evil over good once sin is suffered to enter human habitation."

Expert Q&A

Why did Mr. Hyde murder Sir Danvers Carew in The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde?

Mr. Hyde murders Sir Danvers Carew due to his inherent sadism and uncontrollable rage. Driven by his darker side, Hyde attacks Carew in a random and brutal manner, as described in Dr. Jekyll's letter and witnessed by a maid. This act of violence highlights Hyde's loss of humanity and his dominance over Jekyll's better nature, showcasing his ferocious and evil character.

What is a good thesis statement about good and evil in The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde?

A thesis statement needs to be arguable, specific, and supportable. A good thesis statement for The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde could explore the idea that evil becomes more dangerous when separated from the conscience.

How does the story of Cain and Abel relate to Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde?

The story of Cain and Abel highlights themes of human duality and moral responsibility, which are central to Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. Cain's murder of Abel and his question, "Am I my brother's keeper?" suggest a struggle between good and evil, mirrored in Jekyll's conflict with Hyde. Utterson's reference to "Cain's heresy" implies a stance of non-involvement, which ultimately aligns with complicity, paralleling the destructive relationship between Jekyll and Hyde.

What does "Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde" suggest about the nature of evil and the role of pleasure?

The novella suggests that human nature inherently seeks pleasure, which can be perceived as evil by societal standards. Dr. Jekyll's struggle with Mr. Hyde illustrates the powerful duality within humans, where repression of desires can lead to unhealthy outcomes. Stevenson implies that failing to acknowledge our darker side can result in it overpowering us. The story highlights the role of choice in determining good or evil, emphasizing the consequences of uncontrolled indulgence.

What is the moral lesson in Dr. Jekyll's life?

The moral lesson in Dr. Jekyll's life involves the dangers of unchecked ambition and the ethical pitfalls of scientific experimentation. His story parallels that of Frankenstein, highlighting the consequences of defying moral norms and societal advice. Jekyll's pursuit of separating good and evil within himself leads to his downfall, serving as a caution against playing God and warning against excess and hedonism. Ultimately, it underscores the importance of ethical responsibility in scientific pursuits.

The moral message of The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

The moral message of The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde centers on the duality of human nature. It highlights the internal struggle between good and evil within individuals, suggesting that trying to separate or suppress one's darker side can lead to disastrous consequences.

In Stevenson's Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, how does the theme of good versus evil relate to today's society?

The theme of good versus evil in Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde remains relevant today as it explores the eternal human struggle between moral and immoral impulses. This dichotomy, represented by Jekyll's dual personas, illustrates how unchecked evil can overpower weakened goodness. The story suggests that without moral restraint, evil can dominate, reflecting ongoing societal challenges in balancing ethical behavior with darker tendencies.

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