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The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde
by Robert Louis Stevenson

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Welcome to your ultimate guide to mastering 'The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde' by Robert Louis Stevenson. In these comprehensive YouTube tutorials, Claire breaks down each chapter with clear, engaging explanations, covering themes, character development, and historical contexts. Whether you're grappling with complex symbolism or need help understanding the Victorian backdrop, Claire's expert insights make learning accessible and enjoyable. Perfect for GCSE students aiming to enhance their literary analysis skills and achieve top grades, these videos are your go-to resource for excelling in your studies. Subscribe now and unlock the mysteries of Jekyll and Hyde with Claire's Notes!

A table with drug paraphernalia - a brass pestle and mortar, a medicine bottle and a spoon with a white powder

Themes:

Mystery and tension in The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde

Mystery and tension permeate the narrative, captivating readers with its suspenseful atmosphere and enigmatic characters. Through the dual personas of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, Stevenson crafts a tale of psychological intrigue and moral ambiguity. The novella's Victorian London setting further enhances the sense of unease, as characters grapple with the unknown and wrestle with the consequences of their actions. As a GCSE student, exploring the themes of secrecy and suspense in Stevenson's work not only stimulates critical analysis but also deepens appreciation for its enduring literary significance.

Character:

Sympathy for Dr Jekyll in The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde

Sympathy for Dr Jekyll emerges as a central theme amidst the novella's dark narrative. Initially portrayed as a respected scientist, Dr Jekyll's inner struggle with his dual identity evokes empathy from readers. Stevenson masterfully portrays Jekyll's internal conflict and the moral dilemmas he faces as he grapples with the consequences of his scientific experiments. Through Jekyll's earnest attempts to separate his virtuous and sinister selves, the novella invites GCSE students to explore themes of identity, morality, and the consequences of unchecked ambition with profound compassion and insight.

Mr Hyde as a frightening outsider in The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde

Mr Hyde is portrayed as a chilling outsider whose presence evokes fear and repulsion. Stevenson masterfully crafts Hyde as a figure of menace, with his sinister appearance and violent actions contrasting sharply against the respectable facade of Dr Jekyll. Hyde's unrestrained brutality and unpredictability symbolize the darker impulses lurking within humanity, challenging Victorian society's notions of morality and civility. As a GCSE student, exploring Hyde's characterization not only unveils Stevenson's commentary on duality but also prompts reflection on societal fears and the consequences of unchecked malevolence.

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