The Influence of Science on The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

05.17.2023 // By Tome Tailor

Throughout history, literature has been influenced by the current scientific advancements of the time. Many authors use science to help build compelling, imaginative worlds to explore human nature, morality, and societal norms. One perfect example of this is Robert Louis Stevenson’s The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (1886). From emergent Victorian scientific theories to the philosophy of evolution, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde masterfully interweaves scientific thought into a chilling tale of distorted human behavior. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the key scientific influences on the novella and how they’ve aided in the development of the story’s themes and motifs.

Dualism and the Birth of Psychology

Before the novella’s publication, the field of psychology was slowly being recognized as a legitimate science. This newfound interest led to numerous studies on human behavior, with one particular focus being the duality of human nature. The concept of dualism examines the existence of both good and evil within a single individual. Stevenson’s Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde is the embodiment of this philosophy, where the kindly Dr. Jekyll transforms into the sinister Mr. Hyde.

In Victorian England, where adhering to the strict moral code was essential for one’s reputation, the idea of concealing one’s dark desires became prevalent. Stevenson may have been inspired by the psychology of dualism in crafting his story to show how humans can harbor conflicting aspects within their personality. His portrayal of Dr. Jekyll’s split personality and desire for self-knowledge reflect the burgeoning fascination and fear of the human mind.

Scientific Experimentation and Responsibility

In the late 19th century, laboratories and scientific experimentation became more accessible to the general public. As a result, there was a heightened fear around the potential misuse of scientific knowledge for malevolent purposes. Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde explores this theme by presenting the story of a scientist whose curiosity and ambition drive him to meddle with the very nature of humanity itself.

Dr. Jekyll’s experiments on his own chemical compound to separate his dual nature result in the emergence of the monstrous Mr. Hyde. This transformation can be seen as a cautionary tale on the potential negative outcomes of scientific experimentation. Stevenson’s novella highlights the moral responsibility that comes with being a scientist, as well as the ramifications of reckless scientific pursuit.

Darwin’s Theory of Evolution

Charles Darwin’s On the Origin of Species (1859) ( View on Amazon ) drastically reshaped the way Victorians viewed the natural world and humanity’s place within it. The idea of evolution and the theory of natural selection challenged religious values, as well as societal beliefs about human nature.

Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde can be interpreted as a reflection on the scientific anxieties of the time, with Mr. Hyde representing the primal, animalistic side of humanity, as hypothesized by Darwinist theories. Dr. Jekyll’s struggle to control and understand his darker urges mirrors Victorian society’s fears of regression into a more primitive state.

In Conclusion

Robert Louis Stevenson’s The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde is an iconic piece of literature that captures the scientific spirit of the Victorian era. By integrating concepts of psychology, scientific responsibility, and Darwinian evolution, Stevenson crafts an unforgettable tale that exposes the complexities of human nature and the limits of scientific exploration.

For those who haven’t read the novella, or others who want to revisit this haunting classic, consider buying or listening to The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by following this Amazon link: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=The+Strange+Case+of+Dr.+Jekyll+and+Mr.+Hyde+Robert+Louis+Stevenson

-Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde not only offers a chilling story for entertainment but also remains relevant today as a reminder of the influence and potential consequences of unchecked scientific advancements.

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