The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde: Chapter 3 – Incident of the Letter - Study Guide
This guide will help you analyze and understand Robert Louis Stevenson’s “Incident of the Letter” chapter. This is a pivotal chapter that introduces key evidence and deepens the mystery surrounding Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.
I. Themes / Big Ideas
- Duality of Human Nature: This chapter heavily explores the idea that humans possess both good and evil within them. Jekyll’s attempts to separate these aspects of himself are central, and the letter hints at a darker side he’s trying to conceal.
- Repression & Secret Life: The chapter is steeped in secrecy. Jekyll’s hidden laboratory, the concealed letter, and his evasiveness all point to a life lived in shadow. The theme of repression – hiding one’s true nature – is prominent.
- The Danger of Unchecked Scientific Ambition: Jekyll’s “chemical tastes” and experiments suggest a dangerous pursuit of knowledge without ethical boundaries. The consequences of this ambition are beginning to unfold.
- Social Reputation & Hypocrisy: Jekyll is deeply concerned with his social standing, even more than Hyde’s fate. This highlights the Victorian obsession with reputation and the lengths people would go to protect it, even at the expense of morality.
- The Power of Evidence & Suspicion: The letter itself is a crucial piece of evidence, but its interpretation is fraught with uncertainty. Utterson’s growing suspicion and his reliance on others (Guest) to validate his fears demonstrate the power of evidence – and misinterpretation.
- Loss of Control: Jekyll’s admission that he has “lost confidence in himself” is a significant moment. He's no longer fully in control of the situation, and his attempts to manage Hyde are failing.
II. Vocabulary List
| Word | Part of Speech | Definition |
|---|---|---|
| Indifferently | Adverb | Without particular preference or distinction; casually. |
| Anatomical | Adjective | Relating to anatomy (the study of the structure of living things). |
| Dissecting | Adjective | Relating to the cutting apart of a body or plant for scientific examination. |
| Dingy | Adjective | Dirty, dull, and often dark; gloomy. |
| Theatre | Noun | A place where performances take place; in this context, a room. |
| Gaunt | Adjective | Lean and haggard; emaciated. |
| Cupola | Noun | A dome-shaped roof, often on top of a building. |
| Chevalier | Noun | A knight; in this context, a cheval-glass (a full-length mirror). |
| Apparatus | Noun | Equipment used for a specific purpose. |
| Littered | Adjective | Covered with scattered objects; strewn. |
| Quarters | Noun | A lodging or residence. |
| Elicited | Verb | Drew out (a response or information). |
| Sedulously | Adverb | Diligently; persistently. |
| Resemblance | Noun | Similarity or likeness. |
| Identical | Adjective | Exactly the same. |
III. Quotes to Look For & Analyze
- “It was the first time that the lawyer had been received in that part of his friend’s quarters; and he eyed the dingy, windowless structure with curiosity, and gazed round with a distasteful sense of strangeness…” – This quote establishes the unsettling atmosphere surrounding Jekyll’s laboratory and foreshadows the hidden horrors within. Pay attention to the imagery of darkness, isolation, and decay.
- “‘I swear to God,’ cried the doctor, ‘I swear to God I will never set eyes on him again. I bind my honour to you that I am done with him in this world.’” – Jekyll’s emphatic denial is suspicious. The repetition of “I swear to God” suggests desperation and a possible attempt to convince himself as much as Utterson.
- “‘You seem pretty sure of him,’ said he; ‘and for your sake, I hope you may be right. If it came to a trial, your name might appear.’” – This quote reveals Utterson’s growing concern for Jekyll's reputation and hints at the potential legal ramifications of Hyde’s actions.
- “‘I have—I have received a letter; and I am at a loss whether I should show it to the police. I should like to leave it in your hands, Utterson; you would judge wisely, I am sure; I have so great a trust in you.’” – This is the central moment of the chapter. Jekyll’s request for Utterson to handle the letter demonstrates his loss of control and reliance on others.
- “‘No,’ said the other. ‘I cannot say that I care what becomes of Hyde; I am quite done with him. I was thinking of my own character, which this hateful business has rather exposed.’” – This quote highlights Jekyll’s selfishness and his primary concern for preserving his social standing.
- “‘I have had a lesson—O God, Utterson, what a lesson I have had!’ And he covered his face for a moment with his hands.” – This cryptic statement suggests that Jekyll has learned something profound and terrifying.
- “Plainly the letter had come by the laboratory door; possibly, indeed, it had been written in the cabinet; and if that were so, it must be differently judged, and handled with the more caution.” – Utterson’s realization about the letter's origin increases his suspicion and emphasizes the need for careful investigation.
- “‘No sir,’ he said: ‘not mad; but it is an odd hand.’” – Guest’s assessment of the handwriting is crucial. It confirms that Hyde is not simply insane, but deliberately concealing something through his writing style.
- “‘Why did you compare them, Guest?’ he inquired suddenly.” – Utterson’s direct question reveals his growing awareness of the connection between Jekyll and Hyde.
- “‘What!’ he thought. ‘Henry Jekyll forge for a murderer!’ And his blood ran cold in his veins.” – This final thought encapsulates Utterson’s shocking realization and sets the stage for further investigation.
This study guide should help you understand the key elements of “Incident of the Letter” and prepare for deeper analysis of Stevenson’s novel. Remember to consider the symbolism, foreshadowing, and character motivations throughout your reading.