Jekyll and Hyde quotes CH1

“Though he enjoyed the theatre, [Mr Utterson] had not crossed the doors of one for twenty years”

Theme: secrecy and reputation

Analysis: Stevenson presents Utterson as a highly mortal and devout Christian and he is depicted as a model Victorian Gentleman. He is also described as being “austere with himself” and that he is restricting his pleasures.This quote suggests that Utterson has repressed his desire for theatre as perhaps the enjoyment of theatre may lead him to sinful thoughts.

“I incline to Cain’s Heresy,’ he used to say. ‘I let my brother go to the devil in his own way”

Said by Mr Utterson.

Analysis: “cains heresy” is a story from the bible and is a biblical reference (frequent throughout the book).

“A certain sinister block of building thrust forward it gable in the street”

Meaning/context: describing Jekyll (and Hydes) house

Analysis: “certain sinister” is sibilance and creates and eerie impression. “Thrust” is a verb that presents the building as imposing, intruding and barging out onto the street. It also implies violence and power. The house itself is located in an attractive and cheery street with “general cleanliness and gaiety”. This building like Jekyll himself has 2 contrasting aspects. DUALITY

“The man trampled calmly over the child’s body and left her screaming”

Said by Mr Enfield.

Analysis: “trampled calmly are two words that do not belong together (oxymoron/juxtaposition). It illustrates how Hyde is not ordinary and is not faded by violence and has absolutely no remorse.

“It wasn’t like a man; it was like some damned Juggernaut”

Said by Mr Enfield. The simile compares Hyde to a massive, unstoppable force, highlighting his overwhelming and destructive nature. The term “Juggernaut” originates from the Hindi word “Jagannath”, referring to a deity whose idol was so large that devotees would throw themselves under its wheels, symbolising an irresistible force. This comparison suggests that Hyde is not merely a man but a powerful, malevolent entity, emphasising the horror he instills. The adjective “damned” conveys a sense of condemnation and infernal evil, associating Hyde with a damnation and hellishness. This choice of word intensifies the readers perception of Hyde as a figure of pure evil, beyond redemption.The phrase “wasn’t like a man” underscores Hydes deviation from human norms and reality. This being in CH1 introduces Hyde as a figure of terror and moral corruption, setting the stage for the unfolding narrative. The portrayal of Hyde taps into Victorian anxieties about the darker aspects of human nature and potential for evil within society.

“Sawbones turn sick and white with the desire to kill him”

Said by Mr Enfield. The colloquialism “Sawbones” is a slang term for surgeon, derived from the practice of sawing bones during surgery. It highlights the doctor’s profession and the gravity of his reaction to Hydes actions. His physical reaction of “turn sick and white” describes a visceral, involuntary response to extreme disgust or horror, it emphasises the profound impact Hydes behaviour has on those who witness it. The emotional response of the “desire to kill him” indicates that Hydes presence provokes intense, violent emotions even in individuals committed to healing. Reinforces the theme of DUALITY, showing that one individual (the doctor) can embody both good and evil.

“The more it looks like Queer Street, the less i ask”

Said by Mr Enfield. The colloquialism of “Queer Street” is a Victorian slang term referring to a person in difficulty, often financial or moral; can also refer to gossip, this being heavily avoided during the Victorian era. The phrase suggests that when something seem suspicious or improper, its best to avoid probing it further. Enfield suggests he has a policy of non-interference when situations appear morally ambiguous or potentially scandalous. This reflects a desire to maintain social propriety and avoid involvement in matters that could lead to gossip or scandal. This quote highlights the Victorian tendency to avoid confronting uncomfortable truths. This avoidance underscores the eras emphasis on REPUTATION and REPRESSION of scandals. It also introduces the theme of DUALITY, suggesting outward appearances may mask underlying complexities.