34 pages • 1 hour read
The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde
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Book Brief
The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde
Fiction | Novella | Adult | Published in 1886144
Novella • Fiction
London • 1880s
1886
Adult
13+ years
Super Short Summary
The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson is a novella that explores the duality of human nature through the story of Dr. Jekyll, a well-respected scientist, who creates a drug that transforms him into the malevolent Mr. Hyde. His lawyer and friend, Mr. Gabriel John Utterson, investigates the unsettling connection between Jekyll and Hyde, uncovering a dark secret that highlights the struggle between good and evil within a person’s soul. The story includes themes of violence and moral struggle.
Mysterious
Dark
Unnerving
Suspenseful
Gritty
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Robert Louis Stevenson's The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde is widely praised for its gripping narrative and profound exploration of duality and human nature. Some critics find its pace uneven, and certain plot elements underdeveloped. Despite minor flaws, its enduring themes and gothic atmosphere make it a significant literary work.
Who Should Read The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde?
Readers who enjoy psychological thrillers, Gothic fiction, and moral dilemmas will appreciate The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson. Comparable to classics like Frankenstein by Mary Shelley and Dracula by Bram Stoker, this novella examines duality and the dark sides of human nature.
Mr. Richard Enfield
Mr. Richard Enfield
Enfield is Utterson’s cousin and friend, known as a "man about town." He first introduces Utterson to the connection between Jekyll and Hyde.
Dr. Henry Jekyll/Mr. Edward Hyde
Dr. Henry Jekyll/Mr. Edward Hyde
Dr. Jekyll is a reputable scientist, while Mr. Hyde is his dark and malevolent alter ego. Jekyll seeks to separate his good and evil sides using a special potion.
Sir Danvers Carew
Sir Danvers Carew
Carew is an elderly, respected former parliament member, whose tragic death becomes a pivotal moment in the plot.
Dr. Hastie Lanyon
Dr. Hastie Lanyon
Lanyon is a friend of Utterson and Jekyll, and a traditional scientist who is skeptical of Jekyll’s experiments.
Mr. Guest
Mr. Guest
Mr. Guest is Utterson’s head clerk and a handwriting expert. He plays a small but significant role in analyzing a critical letter, raising suspicion about Jekyll and Hyde's connection.
Poole
Poole
Poole is Dr. Jekyll’s loyal butler, who becomes instrumental in revealing the truth about his master’s secretive behavior.
144
Novella • Fiction
London • 1880s
1886
Adult
13+ years
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