Jekyll and Hyde Quotes GRADE 9

"I am very low, and I will not put you out of your way; but I want to see you very much." - Dr. Jekyll (Chapter 6)

This quote highlights Jekyll's internal struggle. He is clearly a man torn between his desires and his sense of morality. The phrase "I am very low" hints at his emotional and psychological downfall, which foreshadows his eventual loss of control. The repetition of "I want to see you very much" conveys a sense of desperation, which contrasts with Jekyll's usual composed, respectable character. The language Stevenson uses here is soft and polite, but there's an underlying sense of distress. This sets up the tension in the novel between the calm, gentlemanly Dr. Jekyll and the monstrous Mr. Hyde.

"The moment I choose, I can be rid of Mr. Hyde. I give you my hand upon that; and I thank you again and again; and I will just add one little word, Utterson, that I'm sure you'll take in good part: this is a private matter, and I beg of you to let it sleep." - Dr. Jekyll (Chapter 3)

In this quote, Jekyll is trying to reassure Utterson that he is in control of the situation and can easily "rid" himself of Hyde. However, this is ironic because, by this point in the novel, the reader knows that Jekyll is already losing control of his darker self. The calm and authoritative tone of Jekyll's speech here, with the polite "I give you my hand," contrasts with the growing sense of unease the reader experiences, making the quote unsettling. The use of "private matter" reflects Jekyll's desire to keep his inner turmoil hidden, underscoring the theme of repression that runs throughout the novel.

"All human beings are commingled out of good and evil." - Dr. Jekyll (Chapter 10)

This quote encapsulates one of the novel's central themes: the duality of human nature. Jekyll's realization here is crucial because it shows that he believes all people, including himself, are composed of both good and evil. The use of "commingled" emphasizes how these opposing forces are inseparable and interdependent. Stevenson uses this line to explore the Victorian belief in the importance of outward respectability and the hidden, darker side of humanity. The quote also foreshadows the tragic consequences of trying to separate and suppress one's darker side, which is exactly what Jekyll attempts to do.

"I am the chief of sinners, I am the chief of sufferers also." - Dr. Jekyll (Chapter 10)

This statement is crucial because it encapsulates Jekyll's awareness of the moral and physical consequences of his actions. The repetition of "I am" emphasizes Jekyll's full acknowledgment of his guilt—he sees himself not only as a sinner but also as the "chief" of sufferers, recognizing the overwhelming internal pain caused by his transformation into Hyde. Stevenson uses this line to illustrate the depth of Jekyll's remorse and the psychological toll of trying to suppress his darker side. It's a tragic acknowledgment that no matter how much Jekyll wants to escape, he cannot avoid the consequences of his actions.

"Man is not truly one, but truly two." - Dr. Jekyll (Chapter 10)

This quote is central to the novel's theme of duality. Jekyll's belief that man is inherently split between good and evil shows his internal conflict and the novel's exploration of the human psyche. The word "truly" emphasizes the deep truth Jekyll believes he has discovered about the nature of humanity. Stevenson uses this idea to argue that every person is not simply one fixed identity but is, in fact, a combination of different aspects, some good and some evil. This reflects Jekyll's personal struggle as he grapples with the darker side of his own nature, eventually giving in to Mr. Hyde. The idea that humans are "truly two" challenges the simplistic Victorian belief in the inherent goodness of mankind.

"I felt younger, happier, lighter in body..." - Dr. Jekyll (Chapter 10)

The feeling of being "younger" and "happier" is ironic, as Jekyll is embracing a darker, immoral identity. The sensation of youthfulness suggests a return to uninhibited instincts, free from the moral restrictions that define his life as a doctor. The word "lighter" implies freedom from guilt and self-restraint, yet this newfound lightness is dangerous. It symbolizes the seductive allure of abandoning moral constraints, which ultimately leads to Jekyll's destruction as his transformation into Hyde spirals out of control. Stevenson uses this moment to highlight the danger of indulging in forbidden pleasures.

"I concealed my pleasures" - Dr. Jekyll (Chapter 10)

By saying "I concealed my pleasures," Jekyll admits to hiding his more selfish, indulgent desires in order to preserve his moral reputation. This reflects the Victorian society's emphasis on restraint and propriety. Jekyll's repressed pleasures are symbolic of his darker, more primal instincts, which are seen as unacceptable for a man of his stature. However, this repression does not eliminate the desires—rather, it leads to a growing internal conflict.

The phrase also foreshadows Jekyll's transformation into Hyde. By attempting to suppress his darker impulses, Jekyll ultimately creates a new identity (Hyde) through which he can express those pleasures without fear of judgment. This dual identity becomes uncontrollable, and the "concealed pleasures" grow into a destructive force. Stevenson suggests that repressing one's darker side may give the illusion of control, but in reality, it only leads to greater destruction when those desires eventually break free.

"My devil had been long caged, he came out roaring." - Dr. Jekyll (Chapter 10)

The imagery of a "caged devil" is very reminiscent of religious depictions of the temptation within every human soul. The devil, in Christian belief, represents the embodiment of sin and evil. Jekyll's devilish side was imprisoned within him, but when released, it overpowers him. This metaphor echoes the Christian concept of the struggle against sin and the consequences of letting one's darker impulses go unchecked. The unleashing of this "devil" represents a fall from grace, aligning with the religious idea of giving in to temptation and losing one's soul.

"He came out of his seclusion." - Dr. Jekyll (Chapter 10)

The quote "He came out of his seclusion" refers to the moment when Hyde emerges from Jekyll's repressed, hidden side. Jekyll had kept Hyde isolated, trying to suppress his darker impulses, but ultimately, Hyde breaks free. This symbolizes Jekyll's inability to control his darker nature, highlighting the theme of duality in the novel. The "seclusion" reflects Jekyll's attempt to hide his evil side, but it only grows stronger, leading to his eventual downfall. It illustrates the danger of repressing one's darker impulses rather than confronting them.

"The man seems hardly human! Something troglodytic." -Hyde (Chapter 2)

The term "troglodytic" refers to a caveman-like or primitive quality, which emphasizes how uncivilized Hyde is. This comparison highlights Hyde's dehumanization, suggesting that he is more animal than man. Hyde represents the raw, unrefined nature of humanity, devoid of the restraints of civilization or morality.

"He gave an impression of deformity without any nameable malformation." - Hyde (Chapter 2)

Hyde's appearance is disturbing yet not easily definable. The phrase "deformity without any nameable malformation" suggests that there is something wrong about him, but it's not something that can be pinpointed. This creates a sense of mystery and unease around him, as people can feel something is wrong with him, but they can't articulate what it is, making him even more frightening.

"With a hissing intake of breath, he seemed to be snarling." -Hyde (Chapter 4)

The "hissing" and "snarling" describe Hyde as feral and animalistic. These sounds evoke the image of a predator, reinforcing the idea that Hyde is unrestrained by society's rules. He reacts instinctively and violently, as an animal would, highlighting his lack of civility and his inability to control his urges.

"There is something wrong with his appearance; something displeasing, something downright detestable." - Hyde (Chapter 2)

Hyde's physical appearance is described as "displeasing" and "detestable", which reflects his moral ugliness. His exterior is a direct reflection of his inner corruption. The fact that people react with revulsion to him suggests that his evil nature is so ingrained that it manifests in every aspect of his being, including his physical form.

"He broke out in a great flame of anger, stamping his foot and shaking his fist." - Hyde (Chapter 4)

Hyde's outburst of anger is described as a "great flame," emphasizing the intensity and destructiveness of his emotions. The image of him stamping his foot and shaking his fist makes him appear like a petulant child, but one capable of violent destruction. This suggests that Hyde's anger is irrational and uncontrollable, much like his entire personality.

"He has a displeasing smile and an unsettling manner." -Hyde (Chapter 2)

Hyde's smile is "displeasing", a subtle indication of his malice and sinister intent. His "unsettling manner" suggests that his very presence is unnerving, even if his actions are not immediately violent. It's not just what Hyde does, but how he makes people feel, highlighting his corrupting influence on those around him. This emphasizes that Hyde's evil is not just physical but psychological, influencing others in a deeply uncomfortable way.

"So ugly that it brought out sweat on me like running." - Hyde (Chapter 2)

This quote highlights the immediate, visceral repulsion that Hyde evokes in others. The comparison of his ugliness to sweat from running suggests that Hyde's appearance causes an instinctive physical response—it's as if the sight of him triggers a fight-or-flight reaction. The sweat symbolizes the stress and discomfort Hyde brings, indicating that his presence is not only morally unsettling but also physically disturbing.

"Into a savage laugh." - Hyde (Chapter 4)

The phrase "savage laugh" portrays Hyde's laughter as wild and animalistic, suggesting that he is untamed and unrestrained by social norms. The word "savage" evokes images of brutality and violence, emphasizing Hyde's inhuman nature. His laugh is not joyful or harmless but a reflection of his cruelty and malice, showing how he delights in the suffering or fear of others. This highlights Hyde's destructive and chaotic character, making him a figure of pure evil.

"In the ranks of mankind was pure evil." - Hyde (Chapter 10)

This quote highlights that Hyde is not just an isolated evil figure, but that his evil is a fundamental part of humanity itself. The phrase "in the ranks of mankind" suggests that Hyde is not separate from society; rather, he is a distorted reflection of humanity's darker impulses. The idea of "pure evil" emphasizes that Hyde is the embodiment of uncontrollable vice, existing alongside good and showing the fragility of morality in the human condition. Through Hyde, Stevenson explores the notion that everyone harbors the potential for evil, and it can surface when repressed desires are allowed to take control.

"Welcomed him with both hands." - Lanyon (Chapter 2)

This quote refers to the moment when Lanyon first meets Mr. Utterson, and it demonstrates his warmth and hospitality. The phrase "with both hands" suggests a welcoming gesture, symbolizing Lanyon's openness and willingness to share his knowledge. However, the irony becomes apparent as Lanyon later becomes deeply disillusioned with Jekyll's experiments. Initially, Lanyon is a man of science who welcomes intellectual engagement but later distances himself from Jekyll's controversial work, emphasizing the tension between conventional science and the supernatural forces that Jekyll delves into.

"Jekyll became too fanciful for me." - Lanyon (Chapter 6)

Lanyon's statement reveals his growing disapproval of Jekyll's scientific pursuits. The word "fanciful" implies that Jekyll's ideas have become impractical and unrealistic in Lanyon's eyes. As a scientist who values rationality and logic, Lanyon cannot tolerate Jekyll's experiments, which stray into the irrational and supernatural realm. This quote underscores the division between the two characters and marks the point where Lanyon rejects Jekyll's more radical ideas, foreshadowing the moral and intellectual divide that will eventually lead to his breaking point.

"Conscious at his touch of a certain icy pang along my blood." - Lanyon (Chapter 6)

This quote conveys a deep sense of unease that Lanyon experiences when interacting with Jekyll. The "icy pang" suggests an immediate physical reaction to Jekyll's presence, hinting at the unnaturalness of Jekyll's transformation into Hyde. The coldness he feels may symbolize the moral chill that runs through him as he realizes the extent of Jekyll's corruption. This moment foreshadows Lanyon's ultimate horror at discovering the truth about Jekyll's dual identity, signaling the chilling nature of Jekyll's experiments.

"I wish to see or hear no more of Dr. Jekyll." -Lanyon (Chapter 6)

Lanyon's rejection of Jekyll reflects his utter disillusionment with his former friend and the dangerous course of Jekyll's experiments. The statement implies that Lanyon has seen something so horrific that he no longer wants any part in Jekyll's life. This is a crucial turning point in their relationship, as Lanyon can no longer reconcile the man he once respected with the dark path Jekyll has chosen. It also highlights the theme of moral boundaries and the consequences of crossing them, as Lanyon now understands the terrifying consequences of Jekyll's scientific curiosity.

"The clock of the neighbouring church rang out the hour of twelve, when he would go soberly and gratefully to bed." -Utterson

This quote describes Mr. Utterson's routine, which emphasizes his disciplined and reserved personality. The word "soberly" suggests he lives in a serious and thoughtful way, perhaps without indulgence or excess. "Gratefully" implies a sense of contentment and humility in his life. Overall, this shows that Utterson values stability, order, and responsibility, preferring a quiet, steady lifestyle.

"You could see by his looks that he cherished for Mr. Utterson a sincere and warm affection." -Utterson

This line highlights how Mr. Utterson is deeply respected and loved by others. The word "cherished" indicates that the affection is strong and genuine. It suggests that Utterson is not just a professional figure but also someone who inspires warmth and trust in his relationships. His sincerity and kindness likely make him someone people feel safe with, which contrasts with the darker, more secretive elements surrounding Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.

"A rugged countenance that was never lighted by a smile."-Utterson

This quote paints a picture of Utterson as a serious and unsmiling man. The word "rugged" suggests a rough, perhaps weathered appearance, one that lacks the softness or ease that might come with a more cheerful personality. His face "never lighted by a smile" suggests that Utterson does not express much joy or emotion, which reinforces his serious, no-nonsense nature. This makes him seem rather grim, focused on duty rather than personal pleasure.

"If he be Mr. Hyde... I shall be Mr. Seek."- Utterson

This line reflects Utterson's determination to solve the mystery of Mr. Hyde. The phrase "Mr. Seek" shows his role as the investigator, as he takes it upon himself to uncover the truth, despite the dangers or discomfort it might bring. Utterson's sense of duty, both to his friend Dr. Jekyll and to justice, drives him to actively search for answers. It also highlights his courage, as he is willing to confront the unknown and disturbing parts of Jekyll's life.

"I shall consider it my duty to break in that door."-Utterson

Here, Utterson demonstrates his strong sense of duty and loyalty to his friend, Dr. Jekyll. He is willing to take drastic action, even if it goes against social norms or the law (breaking down a door), because he feels it is necessary to protect Jekyll or uncover the truth. This quote reflects Utterson's commitment to doing what he believes is right, no matter the personal cost or difficulty involved.

"Besieged by questions."-Utterson

The phrase "besieged by questions" highlights the overwhelming nature of the mystery surrounding Mr. Hyde. Utterson is being bombarded with inquiries about Jekyll and Hyde, but he is unable to find clear answers. The word "besieged" suggests that the questions are relentless and troubling, contributing to Utterson's growing anxiety and frustration as he seeks the truth.

"Hyde sat heavy on his memory."-Utterson

This quote suggests that the figure of Mr. Hyde is haunting Utterson's thoughts. The phrase "sat heavy" indicates that Hyde's presence is a burden on Utterson's mind, causing him to worry and reflect on the mystery. It shows how deeply disturbing Hyde's behavior and existence are to Utterson, and how difficult it is for him to shake the impression that something is terribly wrong.

"I was coming home from some place at the end of the world, about three o'clock of a black winter morning." -Enfield

This quote sets a dark, ominous mood right at the beginning of Mr. Enfield's story. The phrase "the end of the world" suggests a remote, perhaps unpleasant place, emphasizing the unsettling nature of the event that Enfield is about to describe. The "black winter morning" further adds to the gloomy atmosphere, creating an image of isolation and discomfort. This highlights how Enfield's encounter with Mr. Hyde happens in a setting that feels cold, dark, and distant, setting the stage for the sinister encounter.

"I make it a rule of mine: the more it looks like Queer street, the less I ask."-Enfield

Here, Mr. Enfield reveals his pragmatic and somewhat cynical attitude toward strange or suspicious situations. "Queer street" is a slang expression for a situation that seems odd or suspicious, and Enfield's rule of avoiding inquiry suggests that he prefers to remain uninvolved in things that don't directly concern him. This also reflects the Victorian attitude of minding one's own business, as people often avoided engaging with matters they found uncomfortable or too complex.

"I am ashamed of my long tongue. Let us make a bargain never to refer to this again."-Enfield

This quote shows Mr. Enfield's discomfort with discussing the disturbing events involving Mr. Hyde. The phrase "ashamed of my long tongue" reveals that Enfield feels guilty for speaking too much about a sensitive topic and perhaps revealing too much information. His proposal to "make a bargain never to refer to this again" indicates that he wants to put the entire unpleasant incident behind him, suggesting that the event is too troubling for him to revisit. This further portrays Enfield as someone who avoids confronting uncomfortable truths.

"We told the man we could and would make such a scandal out of this."-Enfield

This quote reveals Mr. Enfield's willingness to use his influence to make a significant issue out of Mr. Hyde's actions. The threat of creating a "scandal" shows how serious the incident was to Enfield and his companion. It also suggests that Enfield is not shy about using his social power to exert control over the situation, possibly to prevent further harm or to ensure that Hyde faces consequences for his behavior. This highlights Enfield's sense of justice and moral standing.

"A girl of maybe eight or ten who was running as hard as she was able down a cross street." -Enfield

This quote shows a young girl running in a hurry, possibly in fear or distress, which suggests that something alarming or unusual has happened. The fact that she is running "as hard as she was able" conveys a sense of urgency and panic, foreshadowing that something disturbing or dangerous is going on. This description is meant to build tension, drawing attention to the seriousness of the situation that Enfield is witnessing

"A great chocolate-colored pall lowered over heaven, but the wind was continually charging and cheering." -setting

This description of the sky provides a symbolic setting, one that foreshadows the novel's darker themes. The "chocolate-colored pall" suggests a suffocating, oppressive atmosphere that reflects the moral darkness surrounding the characters. The word "pall" is often associated with death, further enhancing the idea that something sinister is about to happen. The wind "charging and cheering" offers a sense of agitation and unease, suggesting that the natural world is mirroring the growing tension in the story.

'The fog rolled over the city in the small hours' -setting

The fog in this quote serves as a literal and metaphorical setting for the mystery and uncertainty that pervades the novel. The "fog rolled over the city" suggests confusion and a lack of clarity, mirroring the characters' inability to understand or make sense of the strange events occurring. The fog is a common literary device used to represent secrecy, hiding the truth, and creating an atmosphere of unease. It contributes to the overall mood of the story, where the boundary between good and evil, or Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, is obscured and difficult to see clearly.

"Nocturnal city." -setting

This phrase suggests that the city is alive and active at night, but in a way that is mysterious and unsettling. "Nocturnal" implies that the events or behaviors in the city are hidden or masked by the darkness, much like the hidden evils of human nature in the novel. The use of night emphasizes secrecy, danger, and the unknown—key themes in Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.

"Labyrinths of lamp-lit city."-setting

This description of the city evokes a sense of confusion, entrapment, and disorientation. "Labyrinths" suggests a maze or a place from which one cannot easily escape, symbolizing the complex and hidden nature of the mystery surrounding Mr. Hyde. The "lamp-lit" city indicates that, despite the appearance of light, the city still hides its secrets in the shadows. This reflects the dual nature of the characters and the darkness concealed beneath the surface of Victorian society.

"Like a district of some city in a nightmare."-setting

This metaphor compares the setting to a nightmare, a place of fear and unease. It suggests that the district is otherworldly, distorted, and unsettling. This nightmarish setting mirrors the disintegration of Dr. Jekyll's character and the moral decay that Hyde represents. It also reinforces the idea that the world within Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde is not just physically dangerous, but psychologically and morally threatening.

"It was a wild, cold, seasonable night of March."-setting

The description of the weather as "wild" and "cold" sets a harsh, unwelcoming atmosphere for the novel. March, a transitional month, could symbolize the confusion or inner turmoil that Dr. Jekyll feels. The wildness of the night suggests chaos and unpredictability, reflecting the internal conflict of Jekyll, whose dual nature is becoming increasingly uncontrollable. The coldness adds a sense of isolation, reinforcing the idea of emotional and moral distance from others.

"Dingy windowless structure."-setting

The "dingy" and "windowless" structure suggests a place that is dark, confined, and lacking in transparency. This reinforces the sense of secrecy, hidden truths, and corruption. A windowless building has no connection to the outside world, much like Dr. Jekyll's secretive life and his inability to face the outside world with honesty. The "dingy" description further implies decay, rot, and moral corruption, aligning with the novel's theme of repressed evil coming to the surface.

CONTEXT GRADE 9

The Victorian era was deeply influenced by scientific theories, psychological developments, and societal views on human nature, which are reflected in Stevenson's Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. Lombroso's theory of atavism linked physical traits to criminality, Darwin's evolution theory questioned the fixed nature of humanity, freak shows reflected societal fascination with the "monstrous," and Freud's psychoanalysis helped understand the psychological conflict within individuals. These ideas created a cultural climate ripe for exploring the dual nature of man and the tension between outward respectability and hidden, darker impulses.