Jekyll and HIDE

From what I have gathered thus far in my reading of the novella, The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, both men have extremely convoluted and concealed lives that yield little inclination to their true intentions and thoughts.  The characterization that I have read regarding the two men thus far reminds me of the characterization of “Boo” Radley in Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird.  Both Mr. Hyde and Boo Radley are described as creepy men that yield a sense of unease about them that is difficult to place.  

In an excerpt regarding Mr. Hyde’s character that says, “‘He is not easy to describe.  There is something wrong with his appearance; something displeasing, something downright detestable…’” (Stevenson 11).  In this excerpt regarding Mr. Hyde’s characterization there is a sort of mysterious tone presented. Mr. Enfield is trying to describe this man but realizes that he cannot put a finger on why he seems so odd or what exactly is wrong with him.  So, in order to try and develop a picture in Mr. Utterson’s mind about who exactly this Mr. Hyde is, he begins to try and list attributes of the man. However, the list of attributes only serve to further confuse Mr. Utterson because they are vague and provide little indication as to what exactly is wrong with the man.  This results in Mr. Utterson further questioning the actions of Mr. Hyde to try and gain a sense of what he is like based not only on his appearance but also through his actions.

However, in contrast, in chapter 3 when the author characterizes Dr. Jekyll he writes, “To this rule, Dr. Jekyll was no exception; and as he now sat on the opposite side of the fire- a large, well-made, smooth-faced man of fifty, with something of a slyish cast perhaps, but every mark of capacity and kindness- you could see by his looks that he cherished for Mr. Utterson a sincere and warm affection.” (Stevenson 21).  Here it is obvious that there is a difference in the characterization between Mr. Hyde and Dr. Jekyll, Dr. Jekyll is portrayed in a more positive light with comments on his appearance portraying kindness as well as through his actions with him extending a warm greeting to Mr. Utterson. There is also clear juxtaposition in the character’s reactions regarding the men. When hearing of Mr. Hyde and his actions and something about his unplaceable nature, Mr. Utterson was uncomfortable.  He even mentioned not being able to get a sound good night sleep. However in contrast, Mr. Utterson has no issues with Dr. Jekyll, he only wonders why he has produced such a strange will that directly relates to Mr. Hyde.

Poem:

Jekyll Inner Thoughts: Jekyll External Appearance:

He knows. Something is going to get out Hello! How can you be so sure? I fear for the secret that was so tightly kept. He must understand absolutely nothing.   It is the only protection Ignorance is bliss and therefore not knowing anything is happiness.    Hyde you must not be found Do not let them know the secret.   It is imperative that you stay hidden. Forever perhaps.   Rest assured.   My mind will not be at peace.

He knows absolutely nothing. Smile. Greet. Repeat.   Hello! How are you Mr. Utterson?   The matters of my will will not be revised I apologize.   There is much for you to understand.   Hyde will not further any conflicts or issues, this I can assure you. He is being taken care of, Somewhere far far away.   Rest assured.   My mind is at peace and I understand the consequences of his actions. I will have it taken care of.   Thank you.

The purpose of this poem is to help examine the dichotomy of appearance vs. reality through the development of the character Dr. Jekyll.  In the left hand column is a poem exemplifying his inner thoughts and fears while the poem in the right column portrays the attitude and personality that he exhibits around other people- such as the lawyer Mr. Utterson.  The intended effect is that the audience will understand that humans are convoluted in nature and have personalities that they exhibit and others that they keep to themselves. Dr. Jekyll however, is just better at portraying attitudes and personality traits that would be accepted by people whereas Mr. Hyde invokes a feeling of unease by the character traits he exhibits.