The Bizarre Truth Of Dr. Jekyll And Mr. Hyde

Summary

Robert Louis Stevenson's 1886 novella *Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde* explores the duality of human nature through the life of Deacon William Brodie, whose respectable facade hides a criminal life. Stevenson, inspired by his own health struggles, crafted the tale amid dreams and critiques from his wife, ultimately revising it into a timeless narrative. The work critiques Victorian morality, revealing the hidden vices of the elite, and has inspired numerous adaptations in film and theater. Its legacy endures as a profound examination of repression and the complexities of identity.

Takeaways

• 📚 Robert Louis Stevenson's 1886 novella, 'Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde', is a significant work in gothic horror and popular culture.
• 🕵️‍♂️ The character of Dr. Jekyll was inspired by Deacon William Brodie, a respected figure with a secret life as a criminal.
• 🔑 Brodie, a skilled locksmith, used his abilities for burglary and was eventually sentenced to death after a failed robbery.
• 📝 Stevenson's original draft of the novella was criticized by his wife, Fanny, prompting him to revise it significantly.
• ⏳ The rapid composition of 'Jekyll and Hyde' is often mythologized; it likely took around six weeks to write, not just six days.
• 🧠 The novella explores the duality of human nature, suggesting that individuals have both good and evil sides.
• ⚖️ Stevenson critiques Victorian morality, highlighting the destructive nature of repressing natural human impulses.
• 🎭 The character of Hyde represents the dark desires of Jekyll, who is not merely trying to eradicate evil but indulging in his repressed urges.
• 🗣️ The pronunciation of Jekyll as 'JEE-kul' is often misrepresented; it was inspired by horticulturist Gertrude Jekyll.
• 🔪 The infamous Jack the Ripper murders in 1888 drew comparisons to the Jekyll and Hyde dichotomy, reflecting societal fears.

Q & A

What is the central theme of Robert Louis Stevenson's 'Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde'?

The central theme is the duality of human nature, exploring the conflict between good and evil within individuals.

Who was Deacon William Brodie, and how did he inspire the character of Dr. Jekyll?

Deacon William Brodie was a respected Edinburgh city councilman and craftsman who led a double life as a criminal. His life of virtue contrasted sharply with his secret life, which inspired Stevenson's portrayal of Dr. Jekyll's duality.

How did Robert Louis Stevenson's health impact his writing of 'Jekyll and Hyde'?

Stevenson's chronic illness, particularly his tuberculosis, influenced his imaginative life and the creation of the novella, as he often experienced vivid dreams during his bouts of illness.

What was Fanny Stevenson's role in the creation of 'Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde'?

Fanny Stevenson was both a supporter and a critic of her husband's work. She challenged the initial draft of 'Jekyll and Hyde,' prompting Stevenson to revise and enhance the novella significantly.

What misconceptions exist about the writing process of 'Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde'?

A common misconception is that the novella was written in just three days. While it was composed rapidly, the more accurate timeline for writing and revising the story is estimated to be around six weeks.

What critical social themes does 'Jekyll and Hyde' address beyond the individual character's duality?

The novella critiques Victorian society, highlighting issues of class disparity, moral repression, and the hidden depravity among the elite, reflecting the broader societal fears of the time.

How does the character of Edward Hyde relate to Dr. Jekyll's identity?

Hyde is not a separate personality but rather a manifestation of Jekyll's repressed desires. Jekyll perceives himself as Hyde, indicating that both identities coexist within him.

What did Stevenson think about the sexual interpretations of 'Jekyll and Hyde'?

Stevenson rejected the idea that the novella was solely about sexual repression, arguing that the interpretation of Hyde as a mere voluptuary was a misreading of his work.

What notable adaptations of 'Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde' have occurred since its publication?

The novella has been adapted into numerous films, plays, and other media, starting from the silent film era, with notable adaptations including the 1931 film starring Fredric March and various interpretations across genres.

How did the public's perception of 'Jekyll and Hyde' change in relation to contemporary events, like the Jack the Ripper murders?

During the late 1880s, the Jack the Ripper killings evoked comparisons to the Jekyll and Hyde narrative, as the killer was viewed as embodying the dual nature of man, leading to public discussions linking the story to real-life horrors.