Context

Victorian repression - society valued respectability, forcing people to suppress their darker desires. Jekyll represents the outwardly moral gentlemen, whist Hyde symbolises hidden evil.

Gothic horror and crime - Stevenson uses darker settings, mystery, and doppelgängers to create suspense. Hydes violent behaviour mirrors public fears about crime and hidden killers like Jack the Ripper.

Stevenson life and addictions - stevenson was fascinated by dual identity inspired by Deacon Brodie. A real life, criminal with a respectable public image. Jekylls addiction to the place in reflects drug addiction common in Victorian England.

Science vs religion - turnover of Alex fears about scientific overreach influence by Darwin’s theory of evolution. Hyde ‘ ape-like’ nature suggest the fear of devolution and loss of control over human nature