Chapters 1-3 Analysis

Chapter 1: Story of the Door

Summary: What Happens?

• Mr Utterson, a respected lawyer, and his friend Mr Enfield take a Sunday walk.
• They pass a strange door in a neglected building, which reminds Enfield of a disturbing event.
• He recounts how a man (Hyde) trampled a little girl but later paid compensation.
• The cheque used for payment bore the name of Dr Jekyll, a reputable scientist.
• Enfield and Utterson agree never to discuss the incident again.

Key Themes

• Duality of Human Nature – The respectable Dr Jekyll is linked to the violent and cruel Hyde.
• Secrecy and Reputation – Jekyll's connection to Hyde is hidden, and gossip is discouraged.
• Violence and Evil – Hyde's trampling of the child introduces his sinister nature.

Key Quote

"It wasn't like a man; it was like some damned Juggernaut." – Enfield

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Chapter 2: Search for Mr Hyde

Summary: What Happens?

• Utterson, disturbed by Enfield's story, examines Jekyll's will, which states that if Jekyll disappears, all his possessions go to Hyde.
• Utterson visits Dr Lanyon, Jekyll's old friend, who dismisses Jekyll's scientific work as "unscientific balderdash".
• That night, Utterson has nightmares about Hyde.
• He starts watching Jekyll's house and eventually meets Hyde, who is rude and unsettling.
• Utterson warns Jekyll, but Jekyll assures him he can handle the situation and asks him to trust him.

Key Themes

• Science vs. Religion – Lanyon rejects Jekyll's unorthodox experiments.
• Friendship and Loyalty – Utterson is deeply concerned for Jekyll's welfare.
• Curiosity and Suspicion – Utterson is determined to uncover the truth about Hyde.

Key Quote

"If he be Mr Hyde, I shall be Mr Seek." – Utterson

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Chapter 3: Dr Jekyll is Quite at Ease

Summary: What Happens?

• Two weeks later, Jekyll hosts a dinner party, and Utterson questions him about Hyde.
• Jekyll insists he can get rid of Hyde whenever he chooses but refuses to explain further.
• Jekyll makes Utterson promise to carry out his will should anything happen to him.
• Utterson remains deeply worried about Jekyll's relationship with Hyde.

Key Themes

• Secrecy and Deception – Jekyll hides the full truth about Hyde.
• Power and Control – Jekyll falsely believes he has control over Hyde.
• Reputation and Respectability – Jekyll tries to maintain his social standing despite his hidden double life.

Key Quote

"The moment I choose, I can be rid of Mr Hyde." – Jekyll

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Key Themes Across Chapters 1-3

1. The Duality of Man – Jekyll's good and evil sides begin to emerge.
2. Reputation vs. Reality – Jekyll is a respected doctor, but he harbours dark secrets.
3. Science vs. Morality – Jekyll's experiments challenge traditional beliefs.
4. Mystery and Suspense – The novel builds tension around the true nature of Hyde.

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Exam Tips

• Be able to identify key quotes and explain their significance.
• Understand how Stevenson builds suspense in the early chapters.
• Discuss how Utterson serves as a moral figure, contrasting Jekyll and Hyde.
• Consider how the setting (dark streets, foggy London) reflects the themes.
• Structure essay responses clearly with introduction, body, and conclusion.

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