Chapter 6: Remarkable Incident of Dr Lanyon

Key Events

Dr Lanyon becomes very ill: Lanyon’s sudden illness and shift in demeanour suggests a traumatic incident has occurred which has shaken him.
Lanyon refuses to speak further about Jekyll: Lanyon and Jekyll were once close friends, now Lanyon severing ties indicates something drastic has happened between them.
A drastic change in Dr Jekyll: Initially sociable, Jekyll has now isolated himself, raising concerns about his well-being and state of mind.

Science and Supernatural: The drastic changes in both Jekyll and Lanyon’s characters hint at forces beyond ordinary comprehension and scientific explanation.
Secrecy: Lanyon and Jekyll’s refusal to talk about whatever has happened, maintaining their silence and evasiveness, strengthens the theme of secrecy in the novel.
Friendship: The deterioration of Lanyon and Jekyll’s relationship and Utterson’s sustained concern for his friend underscore the theme of friendship.

Utterson’s worrying persistence: His concern for Jekyll evolves into an obsessive desire to understand the circumstances surrounding Jekyll’s sudden change, revealing Utterson’s determined and loyal character.
Dr Lanyon’s shock and decline: Lanyon’s sudden illness and his refusal to further discuss Jekyll provide evidence of his distressed state.

An air of mystery persists: The thickening plot and the mounting tension add to the overall ominous atmosphere prevalent in the entire novel.
The consequential impact of Hyde’s actions: The ripping effects of Hyde’s actions continue to permeate the lives of Lanyon and Jekyll, creating a sense of dread and concern.