Jekyll and Hyde - Chapter 3

“grew pale to the very lips and there became a blackness about his eyes”

Theme:

• describes the physical manifestation of Jekyll's growing fear and distress when confronted with the implications of his connection to Hyde

• The paleness and blackness around his eyes can be interpreted as a sign of sickness, both physical and moral, as Jekyll's well-being deteriorates under the weight of his secret. 

• This intense transformation signifies the loss of Jekyll's composure and his identity as he becomes increasingly intertwined with Hyde's dark nature and his drug addiction becomes more uncontrollable

“the moment I choose, I can be rid of Mr Hyde”

Theme:

• Jekyll believes he has the power to control his transformation into Hyde. This suggests a sense of agency, but it also foreshadows the eventual loss of that control.

• The balance of power shifts, and Jekyll's benevolent "good" side is no match for Hyde's increasingly powerful and unconstrained "evil" side. He even involuntarily transforms into Hyde during the daytime, a time that represents the "good" and rational side of life. 

“if I am taken away, Utterson, I wish you to promise me that you will bear with him and get his rights for him”

Theme:

• The phrase "if I am taken away" hints at Jekyll's impending doom and the potential for Hyde to gain full control, creating a sense of unease. 

• The request is made under duress and reflects Jekyll's struggle to suppress his dark side, showing fear, and a desire to control his fate. 

• tragic irony: Jekyll, in a desperate attempt to ensure his dark side's rights, is actually sealing his own fate, revealing his inability to share the secret and shameful nature of his predicament with anyone. 

chapter 4