Important Quotes from Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde
1. The Duality of Human Nature
One of the central themes in Stevenson’s novella is the duality of human nature—the coexistence of good and evil within a single person. Several quotes encapsulate this idea:
- "Man is not truly one, but truly two." — This line, often paraphrased from the story, emphasizes the fundamental split within human identity. It suggests that every individual harbors conflicting impulses, and that repression or denial of these impulses can lead to destructive outcomes.
- "I learned to recognize the thorough and primitive duality of man." — Jekyll himself reflects on his understanding of human nature as inherently divided, acknowledging the primal forces within himself.
These quotes underscore the core message that good and evil are not mutually exclusive but are intertwined within every person.
2. Jekyll’s Inner Conflict
Dr. Jekyll’s struggles with his darker side are poignantly captured in several key quotations:
- "My devil had been long caged, he came out roaring." — This vivid metaphor illustrates Jekyll’s suppression of his darker impulses, which eventually break free, leading to Hyde’s emergence.
- "I was slowly losing hold of my original and better self." — Jekyll admits to the gradual erosion of his moral integrity, highlighting the destructive power of his experiments and hidden desires.
These quotes reveal the internal battle faced by Jekyll, torn between societal expectations and his clandestine urges.
3. Hyde’s Evil and Violence
Mr. Hyde is the embodiment of unchecked evil, and Stevenson uses powerful language to depict his malevolence:
- "Mr. Hyde was pale and dwarfish." — This physical description not only emphasizes Hyde’s grotesque appearance but also symbolizes moral deformity.
- "He began to go wrong, wrong in the mind." — Highlighting Hyde’s depravity, this quote suggests that evil manifests not only externally but also internally, affecting the mind and soul.
These descriptions help the reader understand Hyde’s role as the darker side of Jekyll’s psyche and the danger it poses.
4. The Consequences of Repression
Stevenson explores the dangers of repressing one’s darker impulses through the tragic outcomes of Jekyll’s secret life:
- "The powers of Hyde seemed to have grown with the sickly light that had dawned upon my face." — This quote indicates how repression can lead to the growth of sinister tendencies.
- "I bring the life of that unhappy man to an end." — Jekyll’s realization that his experiments have destructive consequences culminates in this tragic admission, emphasizing the peril of suppressing natural instincts.
This theme warns against moral repression and highlights the importance of understanding and integrating all aspects of oneself.
Analyzing Key Quotes in Context
Understanding the Contrast Between Jekyll and Hyde
The quotes that depict Jekyll’s internal struggles and Hyde’s malevolence serve to contrast the two personas. For example, Jekyll’s acknowledgment that "man is not truly one, but truly two" encapsulates the story’s exploration of split identity. Hyde’s physical description as "pale and dwarfish" symbolizes moral corruption, aligning with Victorian fears of hidden vice beneath respectable facades.
Implications of the Quotes for Victorian Society
Many of these quotes reflect Victorian societal norms, such as the emphasis on morality, reputation, and repression. Stevenson uses Hyde as a symbol of the repressed desires that Victorian society deemed unacceptable, illustrating the dangers of strict social restraint.
- The quote "My devil had been long caged, he came out roaring" suggests that suppression of natural instincts can lead to violent outbursts, a warning relevant to Victorian anxieties about morality and self-control.
- Jekyll’s admission of losing his better self underscores the potential psychological toll of living a double life, echoing Victorian concerns about propriety and duplicity.
Notable Quotes and Their Literary Significance
1. "The moment I choose, I can be rid of Mr. Hyde."
This quote reflects Jekyll’s belief in control over his darker side, which ultimately proves to be an illusion. It highlights the theme of temptation and the difficulty of moral self-regulation, emphasizing how internal conflicts can spiral beyond control.
2. "All human beings, as we meet them, are commingled out of good and evil."
Stevenson suggests that morality is not black and white but a complex mixture. This quote promotes empathy and understanding, urging readers to recognize the multifaceted nature of human identity.
3. "If he be Mr. Hyde," he thought, "I shall be Mr. Seek."
This playful yet ominous line captures the curiosity and fear surrounding Hyde’s true nature, illustrating the story's tension between the desire for knowledge and the danger of uncovering darker truths.
Conclusion
Understanding the key quotes from Jekyll and Hyde enriches our appreciation of Stevenson’s exploration of human psychology and morality. These quotations reveal the tension between societal expectations and inner desires, the peril of repression, and the complex duality inherent in all people. Whether analyzing Jekyll’s internal conflict, Hyde’s malevolence, or the broader societal implications, these key quotes serve as vital touchstones for engaging with the story’s enduring themes. As you revisit these quotations, reflect on their relevance not only within the Victorian era but also in contemporary discussions about identity, morality, and human nature.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the quote 'Man is not truly one, but truly two' in Jekyll and Hyde?
This quote highlights the central theme of duality in the novel, emphasizing the conflicting nature of human identity represented by Jekyll and Hyde.
How does the quote 'I learned to keep my soul at the street' reflect Jekyll's character?
This quote illustrates Jekyll's attempt to suppress his darker urges and maintain a respectable exterior, embodying the struggle between his moral self and his darker desires.
What does the line 'And yet for all his faults, I believe he loved me' reveal about the characters' relationship?
It shows Dr. Jekyll's acknowledgment of his own flaws but also hints at the complex, perhaps compassionate, relationship he has with Hyde, suggesting a conflicted sense of attachment.
Why is the quote 'If he be Mr. Hyde, I shall be Mr. Seek' significant?
This pun underscores the theme of investigation and discovery, as Utterson is determined to uncover Hyde's identity, reflecting the novel's focus on morality and hidden secrets.
How does the quote 'The moment I choose, I can be rid of Mr. Hyde' relate to the theme of control?
This quote reveals Jekyll's belief that he can control his darker side, highlighting the novel's exploration of the struggle between good and evil within human nature.
