Character & Key Quotes: Minor Characters

Minor Characters in ‘Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde’

Servants

The novel’s servants, although unnamed, provide key insight into the goings-on in the households of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde.
They often witness crucial events concerning Hyde’s criminal behaviour.
Their fear and uncertainty in dealing with Hyde adds to the overall theme of evil and horror.

Key Quote

“She had an evil face, smoothed by hypocrisy; but her manners were excellent.”

Poole

Poole is Dr Jekyll’s loyal butler and is heavily involved in the narrative.
His concern for Jekyll shows the loving and caring relationships within Jekyll’s household.
By the end, we see Poole’s bravery and loyalty when he helps Utterson break down Jekyll’s door.

Key Quote

“If it came to a trial, your name might appear.”

Minor Police Characters

The minor police characters contribute to the gothic atmosphere by helping to build up the image of Hyde as a dangerous criminal.

Key Quote

“The more it looks like Queer Street, the less I ask.”

The Old Woman

The old woman who lives in Hyde’s Soho residence adds to the sense of evil surrounding Hyde.
She is described as having an “evil face, smoothed by hypocrisy”, suggesting a life of dishonesty and possibly crime.

Key Quote

“She had an evil face, smoothed by hypocrisy; but her manners were excellent.”

Hyde’s Victims

Hyde’s victims, such as the girl he tramples or Sir Danvers Carew, are important to the narrative as they emphasise the sheer monstrousness of Hyde and add to the growing sense of horror.

Key Quote

“The man trampled calmly over the child’s body and left her screaming on the ground.”

These characters, whilst minor, all play a central role in shaping our understanding of the wider narrative and key themes of Stevenson’s ‘Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde’.