The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde: Chapter Study Guide – “Dr. Jekyll Was Quite At Ease”
This guide will help you analyze the key elements of Chapter 5, focusing on themes, vocabulary, and important quotes.
Themes / Big Ideas
This chapter is pivotal in establishing the central mysteries of the novel and foreshadowing future events. Here are some key themes/big ideas to consider:
- Duality of Human Nature: The chapter explicitly introduces the conflict between Jekyll and Hyde, representing the good and evil within a single person. The struggle for control is hinted at through Jekyll’s desperate attempts to downplay Hyde's significance.
- Repression & Secret Life: Jekyll’s insistence on keeping the matter of Hyde private and his discomfort when Utterson inquires highlight the theme of repressed desires and a hidden, darker side to Victorian society.
- The Power of Reputation: Jekyll is deeply concerned with maintaining his social standing, even at the cost of honesty. This underscores the Victorian obsession with reputation and the consequences of its loss.
- The Limits of Reason & Science: Jekyll’s “scientific heresies” (as Lanyon calls them) suggest a transgression of natural boundaries. The chapter raises questions about the ethical implications of scientific ambition and its potential to unleash dangerous forces.
- Trust & Loyalty: The chapter explores the dynamic between Jekyll and Utterson. Jekyll’s repeated appeals for trust and his eventual request for Utterson to help Hyde demonstrate the importance of loyalty, even when faced with unsettling circumstances.
- Guilt & Responsibility: Jekyll’s anxiety and attempts to control the narrative suggest a deep sense of guilt surrounding Hyde. He feels responsible for Hyde’s actions and fears the consequences of their exposure.
Vocabulary List
| Word | Part of Speech | Definition |
|---|---|---|
| cronies | noun | close friends or companions |
| reputable | adjective | having a good reputation; honorable |
| contrived | verb | planned or arranged artificially |
| unobtrusive | adjective | not noticeable; not obtrusive |
| sobering | verb | making someone serious or thoughtful |
| expense | noun | cost; effort |
| strain | noun | a physical or mental burden |
| slyish | adjective | cunning; deceitful |
| distasteful | adjective | unpleasant; causing dislike |
| hide-bound | adjective | rigidly traditional or conventional |
| pedant | noun | a person who is excessively concerned with minor details and rules |
| heresies | noun | opinions or doctrines that contradict established beliefs |
| blatant | adjective | conspicuously obvious; flagrant |
| ruthlessly | adverb | without pity or compassion |
| trifle | adverb | slightly; a small amount |
| incoherency | noun | lack of logical connection or consistency |
| irrepressible | adjective | unable to be restrained; unstoppable |
| bear with | phrasal verb | tolerate or endure something unpleasant |
Quotes to Look For & Analyze
- “I have been wanting to speak to you, Jekyll,” began the latter. – This simple opening line immediately establishes a sense of urgency and foreshadows the revelation of a troubling secret.
- “My poor Utterson, you are unfortunate in such a client.” – Jekyll’s dismissive tone and attempt to minimize Utterson's concerns reveal his desire to control the narrative.
- “I was never more disappointed in any man than Lanyon.” – This seemingly minor comment hints at a deeper conflict between Jekyll and Lanyon, possibly related to his scientific work.
- “What I heard was abominable,” said Utterson. – This is a crucial statement that confirms the severity of Hyde’s actions and raises questions about his true nature.
- “It is one of those affairs that cannot be mended by talking.” – This emphasizes the secrecy surrounding Hyde and suggests a situation beyond simple legal resolution.
- “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.” – Jekyll’s desperate plea for secrecy and his reliance on Utterson's trust are significant.
- “the moment I choose, I can be rid of Mr. Hyde.” – This is a key statement that suggests Jekyll believes he has control over the transformation, but also raises doubts about its true feasibility.
- “I have really a very great interest in poor Hyde.” – This is a highly suspicious statement. Why would Jekyll have such concern for someone he claims to want to eliminate?
- “I wish you to promise me that you will bear with him and get his rights for him.” – This request is the most unsettling part of the chapter. It implies that Hyde is vulnerable and needs protection, further deepening the mystery surrounding their relationship.
- “I can’t pretend that I shall ever like him,” said the lawyer. – Utterson's honesty and reluctance to promise affection highlight his strong moral compass.
- “I only ask for justice; I only ask you to help him for my sake, when I am no longer here.” – This plea is manipulative and suggests Jekyll fears his own mortality and the consequences of Hyde’s actions being revealed after his death.
By carefully analyzing these themes, vocabulary, and quotes, you will gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of Chapter 5 and its significance within The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.