The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde - Chapter Study Guide: "Incident at the Window"
This guide will help you analyze and understand key elements of Chapter 5, "Incident at the Window."
Themes / Big Ideas
This chapter is pivotal in solidifying several core themes of the novel. Pay attention to how Stevenson uses imagery and dialogue to convey these ideas:
- The Duality of Human Nature: This is the central theme. The chapter directly confronts the idea that something terrible is hidden within Jekyll himself, not simply as an external force (Hyde). The terror on Jekyll’s face suggests a struggle happening internally.
- Repression & Hidden Evil: The chapter emphasizes the secrecy surrounding Jekyll and Hyde. Jekyll’s refusal to invite them inside, his discomfort even being seen, highlights the shame and repression at play. The “unfit” state of his house symbolizes a corrupted inner world.
- The Physical Manifestation of Evil: While we haven't seen the transformation, the terror on Jekyll’s face implies a physical and psychological toll associated with Hyde. The chapter foreshadows the horrifying connection between Jekyll’s being and his alter ego.
- The Limits of Rationality/Science: Utterson and Enfield represent reason and societal norms. Their inability to comprehend what they witness underscores the limitations of their worldview when faced with something truly unnatural and monstrous.
- Fear & Foreboding: The chapter is steeped in a growing sense of dread. The “abject terror” and the shared horror between Utterson and Enfield create a palpable atmosphere of fear, signaling impending doom.
- Isolation & Alienation: Jekyll’s self-imposed isolation is evident in his reluctance to socialize and his description of being “very low.” This isolation contributes to the darkness within him.
Vocabulary List
| Word | Part of Speech | Definition |
|---|---|---|
| Repulsion | Noun | Intense distaste or aversion |
| Ass | Noun | A foolish person |
| Premature | Adjective | Occurring too early |
| Mien | Noun | A person's manner or bearing |
| Disconsolate | Adjective | Very unhappy; full of grief |
| Drearily | Adverb | In a dull, depressing manner |
| Venture | Verb | To dare to do or say something |
| Abject | Adjective | Extremely bad; hopeless |
| Traverse | Verb | To travel across or through |
| Thoroughfare | Noun | A public road or way |
Quotes to Look For & Analyze
These quotes are crucial for understanding the chapter’s key themes and foreshadowing. Consider why Stevenson chose these specific words and phrases.
- “Well,” said Enfield, “that story’s at an end at least. We shall never see more of Mr. Hyde.” – This is ironic foreshadowing. The false sense of security highlights the danger that still exists.
- “It was impossible to do the one without the other.” – Enfield’s statement about seeing Hyde and feeling repulsion hints at a deeper connection between the two experiences. What does this suggest?
- “I am very low, Utterson,” replied the doctor drearily, “very low. It will not last long, thank God.” – Jekyll’s statement is ambiguous. Is he referring to a physical illness or something more sinister? The “thank God” could be relief at an impending end.
- “I should like to very much; but no, no, no, it is quite impossible; I dare not.” – This refusal to explain why he “dare not” is incredibly significant. What is Jekyll afraid of?
- “But the words were hardly uttered, before the smile was struck out of his face and succeeded by an expression of such abject terror and despair, as froze the very blood of the two gentlemen below.” – This is the most important quote in the chapter. Analyze the imagery and emotional impact of this description. What does it reveal about Jekyll’s state?
- “God forgive us, God forgive us,” said Mr. Utterson. – This exclamation reveals the profound shock and horror experienced by Utterson, suggesting they have witnessed something truly evil.
- “They were both pale; and there was an answering horror in their eyes.” – The shared physical reaction emphasizes the gravity of what they saw and the universality of their fear.
By carefully considering these themes, vocabulary, and quotes, you will be well-equipped to understand the significance of "Incident at the Window" within the broader context of The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.