The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

Summary

"The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde," written by Robert Louis Stevenson, is a Gothic novella from the late 19th century. The story explores the duality of human nature through the contrasting characters of the respectable Dr. Jekyll and the malevolent Mr. Hyde. It delves into themes of morality, identity, and the struggle between good and evil.

At the beginning of the novella, we are introduced to Mr. Utterson, a lawyer who is troubled by the peculiar arrangements in Dr. Jekyll's will, which leaves everything to the enigmatic Mr. Hyde in the event of Jekyll's disappearance. As Utterson learns more about Hyde—especially after a shocking incident in which Hyde tramples a child and later compensates the family with a check signed by Jekyll—he grows increasingly uneasy. This sets the stage for the deepening mystery surrounding Hyde’s true nature and his connection to Jekyll, as Utterson’s curiosity drives him to confront the dark implications of their relationship.