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Year 10 - English

'Jekyll and Hyde': duality as a theme in the novella

Jekyll & Hyde: duality and evil

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupils complete their first reading and exploration of 'Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde'. They read the novella in full, before thinking about the importance of the Gothic, science and religion. They then explore key characters and essay writing before writing about duality in the novella.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to explain how Stevenson uses language and structure to explore the dual nature of man.

Key Notes

  • The duality of human nature - that all humans are capable of good and evil - is a central idea in the novella.
  • Arguably, Stevenson embraces his own duality but is critical of those whose dual nature leads to hypocritical decisions.
  • Arguably, Stevenson's choice of narrative structure is representative of duality.
  • The multiple narrators could reflect the fact there are always multiple ways of looking at situations.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • To harbour: to shelter or protect someone or something
  • To embrace: to accept or welcome something eagerly and openly
  • To relish: to enjoy greatly, savouring every moment
  • Gatekeeper: one who controls access or entry to something
  • To flout: to openly disregard or disobey a rule or law

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Stevenson encourages the reader to be critical of Jekyll due to the dual nature inherent inside of him.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain this English learning goal in two key points.

The duality of human nature - that all humans are capable of good and evil - is a central idea in the novella. Arguably, Stevenson embraces his own duality but is critical of those whose dual nature leads to hypocritical decisions.

2. Define this language term and use it in a sentence. 'To harbour'

to shelter or protect someone or something.

3. Correct this common English misunderstanding.

Mistake: Stevenson encourages the reader to be critical of Jekyll due to the dual nature inherent inside of him. Correction: Stevenson appears to embrace duality, through his rejection of Calvinism and alleged behaviour at university. He is critical of the hypocrisy that arose from those who harboured secrets as a result of duality.

More Lessons In This Unit

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