Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde
Robert Louis Stevenson’s Psychological Thriller
Scotsman Robert Louis Stevenson wrote Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde (or to give it its full title, The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde) in 1886. It is one of the author’s best known works and has remained popular throughout the years.
About Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde
This brilliantly crafted mystery is a captivating tale, which has been subject to numerous adaptations. Forest Whitaker and 50 cent are set to be in a 2010 release, which is currently in pre-production.
For such an eerie novella it is perhaps unsurprising that there are several legends attached to the work. One such tale states that the violence and gruesomeness of the story came to Stevenson in a dream. Another legend is that Stevenson burned the manuscript of his first draft after receiving criticism from his wife.
It is not known for sure whether these stories are true, but it is fitting that such a mysterious work has its very own mysteries.
In the Novella, Stevenson has cleverly portrayed the contradictions of Victorian society. He seems to be alluding to the consequences of restraint, and the veneer of decorum and decency.
The book is also an account of the dark side of human nature and the complexities of the psyche. In addition, the story prays upon human beings’ fears about aspects of themselves, like their temper, that they are unable to control. This feeling of powerlessness causes great anxiety, which all readers can associate with. It is one of the reasons for the book's continued success.
Stevenson cleverly writes the piece with an authoritative approach and a journalistic style, this adds authenticity to the events. In addition, it allows the reader to imagine that the story is based in truth.
Robert Louis Stevenson
Stevenson was born in Edinburgh, in 1850. At a young age he discovered a love of adventure and stories and at twenty one he determined to become a writer.
His first works were factual accounts of his travels around Europe. Health problems had plagued Stevenson from a young age, so he attempted to find a climate that would ease these problems. Much of his life, therefore, was spent travelling through Europe, America and the Pacific Islands. Stevenson finally settled in Samoa.
When Stevenson took to writing fiction his own adventures were hugely influential. His voyages, coupled with a vivid imagination gave rise to one of his most famous novels, Treasure Island.
Stevenson’s work was very popular in his lifetime. However, by the early twentieth century he was criticised for the commercial value of his fiction. Since then he has been recognised as one of the finest authors in the English language.
Synopsis of The Novella
Set in nineteenth century London, the story tells of the hunt for a madmen who rampages the streets at night, committing terrible crimes. The only thing that is known of him is his name: Mr Hyde.
The investigation uncovers that Hyde is acquainted with Dr Henry Jekyll. Jekyll, however, is not prepared to listen to accounts of Hyde’s behaviour and withdraws to his laboratory.
Years pass and the violence increases. Hyde’s crimes escalate to brutal murder. Eventually, Dr Jekyll has no choice but to confront the facts and admit that he can no longer hide from the truth.
Things That Go Bump In The Laboratory
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