Character & Key Quotes: Inspector Newcomen

Character & Key Quotes: Inspector Newcomen

Character Traits: Inspector Newcomen

• Inspector Newcomen is a minor character appearing briefly in the novella.
• Portrayed as a professional, carrying out the investigation of Carew’s murder.
• Doesn’t doubt Mr Hyde’s guilt and is easily convinced that he is the killer.
• Not given much of a personality – his role is relatively functional, advancing the plot.

Key Interactions

• Interacts largely with Utterson, confirming the murder weapon was Hyde’s cane.
• Briefly interacts with Jekyll during the inspection of Hyde’s rooms.

Crucial Quotes

• “That is the stick I was walking with this morning,” the inspector commented, giving us an insight into his investigative nature.
• When discussing the murder weapon, Newcomen said, “This piece of stick, has an awful look sir, …”.
• Upon examining Hyde’s room, he states, “Nothing has been touched,” revealing his disappointment and surprise at the tidy room.

Overall Role in the Novella

• Newcomen’s main role is to confirm Hyde’s guilt, bringing the criminal aspect of the story into light.
• His presence increases the tension and severs the clear divide between Jekyll’s respectable life and Hyde’s evil actions.
• Though a minor character, Inspector Newcomen’s role advances the plot by providing crucial links in the murder investigation.