Jekyll and Hyde Quotation Bank: Unlocking the Themes and Characters of Robert Louis Stevenson’s Classic Novel
Jekyll and Hyde quotation bank serves as a vital resource for students, educators, literature enthusiasts, and researchers seeking a comprehensive collection of memorable lines from Robert Louis Stevenson’s renowned novel, The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. This classic story explores the duality of human nature, morality, and identity, making quotations from the text powerful tools for analysis, classroom discussion, and personal reflection. Whether you're preparing for a literary exam, writing an essay, or simply wish to deepen your understanding of the novel, a well-curated quotation bank offers invaluable insights into its themes and characters.
Understanding the Significance of Quotations in Jekyll and Hyde
The Role of Quotations in Literary Analysis
- Highlight key themes such as duality, morality, and repression
- Provide evidence to support interpretations and arguments
- Enhance understanding of character development and motivations
- Facilitate classroom discussions and essay writing
The Value of a Quotation Bank
- Consolidates important lines for quick reference
- Helps in memorizing and analyzing significant passages
- Provides context for thematic exploration
- Serves as a tool for comparison and contrast of characters and ideas
Key Themes and Corresponding Quotations from Jekyll and Hyde
Duality of Human Nature
The central theme of the novel is the duality of human nature — the coexistence of good and evil within individuals. Quotations capturing this theme reveal Stevenson’s exploration of the human condition.
- "Man is not truly one, but truly two." — Chapter 10
- "The moral of the story is that every man has his secret sin."
- "I learned to recognize the thorough and primitive duality of man." — Chapter 10
The Struggle Between Good and Evil
Stevenson depicts the constant internal battle faced by individuals trying to suppress their darker impulses.
- "If he be Mr. Hyde," he had thought, "I shall be Mr. Seek." — Chapter 10
- "The powers of Hyde appeared to have grown with the sickly man’s years." — Chapter 10
- "I was slowly losing hold of my original and better self, and becoming slowly incorporated with my second and worse." — Chapter 10
Repression and Hidden Desires
The novel examines how repression of our true selves can lead to destructive outcomes.
- "The street shone out in contrast to its dingy neighborhood, like a fire in a forest." — Description of the transformation of Jekyll’s laboratory
- "All human beings are commingled out of good and evil." — Chapter 10
- "The moment I choose, I can be rid of Mr. Hyde."
Notable Quotations for Character Analysis
Dr. Jekyll
- "I was no more myself when I laid aside restraint and plunged into shame." — Chapter 10
- "Man is not truly one, but truly two."
- "I have been doomed to such a curse." — Reflection on his dual nature
Mr. Hyde
- "Mr. Hyde was pale and dwarfish, he gave an impression of deformity." — Chapter 10
- "He is more of a monster than a man."
- "This creature, which I had created, was unfit to be my salvation."
Other Characters
- "Henry Jekyll, of a noble and good nature, was now becoming a prisoner to his own dark side."
- "The man is not truly one, but truly two."
How to Use the Jekyll and Hyde Quotation Bank Effectively
For Students and Educators
- Compile quotations to support thesis statements or essay topics
- Use quotations as prompts for discussion or debate
- Create flashcards for memorization and quick recall during exams
- Analyze quotations to understand character motivations and thematic depth
Create Your Own Quotation Collection
- Read the novel carefully, noting impactful lines
- Organize quotations by theme, character, or chapter
- Include page numbers or chapter references for context
- Use digital tools or notebooks to store and update your collection
Resources for Accessing Jekyll and Hyde Quotations
Online Texts and Databases
- Project Gutenberg: Free access to the full text of the novel
- Literary databases and scholarly websites
- Educational platforms offering annotated versions
Printed Collections and Study Guides
- Annotated editions with highlighted quotations
- Study guides like SparkNotes or CliffsNotes with key quotes
- Literature anthologies featuring classic works and quotations
Conclusion: Embracing the Power of Jekyll and Hyde Quotations
The jekyll and hyde quotation bank is more than just a list of memorable lines; it is a gateway to understanding the complex themes, characters, and moral questions posed by Robert Louis Stevenson. By curating and studying these quotations, readers can gain deeper insights into the duality of human nature and the internal struggles that define us all. Whether for academic purposes or personal reflection, a well-organized quotation bank enriches the reading experience and fosters critical thinking about the enduring relevance of this timeless story.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the quotation 'Man is not truly one, but truly two' in Jekyll and Hyde?
This quotation highlights the novel's central theme of duality within human nature, emphasizing the conflict between good and evil residing within a single person.
How does the quote 'I learned to keep my soul at the level of ordinary humanity' reflect Jekyll's internal struggle?
It reveals Jekyll’s attempt to suppress his darker side and maintain a facade of morality, illustrating his internal battle between his moral self and his hidden desires.
What does the quotation 'All human beings are commingled out of good and evil' suggest about the novel's view on morality?
It suggests that morality is complex and that every individual contains both virtuous and wicked elements, challenging notions of pure good or evil.
Why is the quote 'The moment I choose, I can be rid of Mr. Hyde' important in understanding Jekyll's character?
This quote shows Jekyll’s belief that he can control his darker side, but ultimately reveals his inability to fully separate himself from Hyde, emphasizing the theme of uncontrollable duality.
How does the quote 'I was slowly losing hold of my original and better self' illustrate Jekyll's downfall?
It indicates Jekyll’s gradual surrender to his darker impulses, reflecting how his dual identity leads to his moral and psychological decline.
What is the significance of the quotation 'The police are on the track of the murderer' in the context of the novel?
This quote underscores the consequences of Jekyll's secret experiments and the destructive impact of his duality becoming public, leading to chaos and tragedy.
How does the quotation 'He began to be a new man' relate to Jekyll's transformation?
It signifies Jekyll’s attempt to reinvent himself through his experiments, though ultimately it symbolizes the loss of his original moral identity.
What does the phrase 'Hyde was tall and quite a handsome man' reveal about the character of Hyde?
This description challenges the idea that evil is always grotesque, suggesting that Hyde can be charming and attractive, representing the seductive nature of evil.
Why is the quotation 'I have been doomed to such a dreadful shipwreck' relevant to understanding Jekyll's fate?
It reflects Jekyll’s realization that his dual nature has led to his inevitable destruction, emphasizing the tragic consequences of suppressing one's darker impulses.
