The Gothic Imagery of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

05.17.2023 // By Tome Tailor

The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, written by Robert Louis Stevenson in 1886, is a well-known work of fiction that delves into the dark recesses of human nature. The story revolves around Dr. Henry Jekyll’s inner struggle with his evil alter ego, Edward Hyde. It’s a classic tale of duality and morality, which has captured readers’ imaginations for centuries. One of the reasons might be the captivating imagery and atmosphere of the narrative, which reflects its Gothic roots. In this blog post, we’ll explore the Gothic imagery used in Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, as well as the key themes the novel explores that are traditional to Gothic literature.

Setting and Atmosphere

One of the key aspects of any Gothic tale is the setting, and Stevenson certainly delivers in Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. Set mostly in the dark, foggy streets of Victorian London, the novel creates an eerie atmosphere that reflects the dark and twisted nature of the tale. The city itself acts as a character, with the architecture and streetscape serving as a backdrop for the creepy and often violent episodes that take place.

The descriptions of Jekyll’s house and laboratory are also steeped in Gothic imagery. In particular, the lab, hidden behind a gate and in the basement of the house, suggests a place of secrecy and darkness – a fitting location for the transformation and creation of Mr. Hyde. The room is described as “dusty, dreary, and yet somehow lovable”, which encapsulates the duality of Dr. Jekyll’s character.

Duality and Transformation

At the heart of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde lies the theme of duality, a concept that is frequently found in Gothic literature. In this case, the duality is between good and evil. Dr. Jekyll is a respected gentleman and scientist, while Mr. Hyde is a violent, cruel, and monstrous version of Jekyll. The transformation from Jekyll to Hyde is not only physical but also psychological, as Hyde represents the embodiment of Jekyll’s dark side.

The theme of duality is further emphasized through the use of Gothic imagery, such as the mirror in which Jekyll sees his reflection change from himself to Hyde. The mirror serves as a metaphor for the soul and the ability to see the darkness within, which is a recurring theme in Gothic literature.

The Supernatural and Science

While Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde may not have overt supernatural elements, the story’s reliance on the unexplained and mysterious is an essential pillar of Gothic literature. The transformation of Jekyll into Hyde can be considered a form of supernatural intervention, albeit a man-made one. The chemistry and elixirs that Jekyll uses to bring about these transformations serve as a form of “scientific” magic, blurring the lines between the natural and supernatural, an essential component to the Gothic genre.

Conclusion

To conclude, the Gothic imagery and themes within Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde serve to create an atmospheric and gripping tale that delves into the darkness of the human psyche. Stevenson’s use of setting, duality, and the interplay of science with the supernatural all contribute to a spine-tingling and memorable reading experience.

If you haven’t read The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, or you’d like to revisit this classic, you can find it on Amazon by using this link. In the mood for more Gothic literature? Consider picking up Mary Shelley’s classic, Frankenstein, or Bram Stoker’s famous tale, Dracula.

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