Dr Jekyll

secrecy and reputation

"The moment I choose, I can be rid of Mr. Hyde."

Euphemism – "be rid of"

A softer, indirect way of saying “destroy” or “eliminate,” which could reflect guilt, denial, or the character’s attempt to downplay the seriousness of Hyde’s presence.

secrecy

"I concealed my pleasures."

. Verb choice – "concealed"

The word "concealed" implies secrecy, shame, or guilt. It’s more powerful than just “hid,” suggesting intentional and possibly deceptive behavior.

Juxtaposition – "concealed" vs "pleasures"

There’s a contrast between the ideas of hiding (concealed) and enjoyment (pleasures), which creates tension. It suggests the pleasures might be seen as wrong or forbidden.

addiction

"The balance of my nature might be permanently overthrown."

Metaphor – "The balance of my nature"

Refers to the speaker’s inner self or personality being in harmony. It compares the human psyche to something that can be "balanced," suggesting a struggle between two sides

Personification – "overthrown"

The word "overthrown" is usually used for governments or rulers. Here, it gives the idea of internal conflict as if one part of the self is being violently removed by another, almost like a coup.

science vs religion

"If I am the chief of sinners, I am the chief of sufferers also."

"Chief of sinners" → Religious guilt, suggesting Jekyll recognizes that his scientific actions are sinful.

"Chief of sufferers" → Highlights punishment without redemption, unlike religion, where sinners can repent

reputation

"I have brought on myself a punishment and a danger that I cannot name."

Repetition of abstract nouns – "a punishment and a danger"

Using two intense, abstract ideas in a row builds emotional tension and emphasizes the seriousness of the consequences.

duality

"Man is not truly one, but truly two."

Antithesis

The contrast between "one" and "two" highlights opposites or a contradiction, suggesting a duality within human nature. This is a key feature of antithesis, where two opposing ideas are juxtaposed to create a striking contrast