The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde

Duality of Human Nature

The novella's core idea — that every person, not just Jekyll, contains opposing moral impulses — is stated directly in Jekyll's confession. Exam questions often ask how Stevenson presents the idea that civilised, respectable people conceal a hidden, uncivilised self.

Reputation and Respectability

Jekyll's entire motive is to indulge his impulses without damaging his public reputation; Utterson and Enfield's shared refusal to discuss 'gossip' about Hyde shows how Victorian respectability depended on maintaining appearances above honesty.

Science and Ambition

Jekyll's transformation potion reflects Victorian excitement and anxiety about scientific progress outpacing moral and religious limits — his ambition to separate good from evil scientifically is presented as hubris rather than genuine progress.

The Gothic and London Setting

Stevenson uses fog, locked doors, night-time streets and Jekyll's divided house (respectable front, sinister laboratory door at the back) to build a physical geography that mirrors the novella's psychological themes.

Secrecy and Silence

Almost every character in the novella withholds information — Utterson refuses to press Jekyll, Enfield calls his own street 'Queer Street' but won't elaborate, Lanyon burns his notes. The narrative structure itself, told through documents and delayed revelation, dramatises this culture of silence.