Character & Key Quotes: Mr Hyde

Description & Physical Appearance

“Mr. Hyde was pale and dwarfish, he gave an impression of deformity without any nameable malformation.” This quote gives us a sense of Hyde’s unnerving, uncanny presence.
“troglodytic” or prehistoric. This shows us that Hyde is linked with the primitive and non-evolved human traits.

Behaviours & Actions

“ape-like fury” - Use of simile to depict Hyde as primal and primitive, reflecting his violent, uncontrolled behaviour.
“snarled aloud into a savage laugh” - The animalistic verbs ‘snarl’ and ‘savage’ reveal Hyde’s cruel, brutal nature.

Others’ Reactions to Hyde

“the mere radiance of a foul soul that thus transpires through, and transfigures its clay continent.” - This idea suggests that Hyde’s evilness is so powerful it somehow alters his physical appearance to those observing him, highlighting the immense impact that Hyde’s evil has on others.

Hyde & Duality

“the ghost of some old sin the cancer of some concealed disgrace: punishment coming, years after memory has forgotten and self-love condoned the fault.” - This notion suggests Hyde’s existence might the result of some past sins or misdeeds committed by Jekyll, reflecting the concept of duality and hidden dark secrets.

Hyde & Violence

“with ape-like fury, he was trampling his victim under foot, and hailing down a storm of blows…” - This description provides a vivid image of Hyde’s extreme violence, again linking him to primitive, uncontrollable rage.

Remember that Mr. Hyde is the physical embodiment of Dr. Jekyll’s dark, suppressed desires and emotions. Use these quotes to explore how Hyde is depicted and how he reflects the theme of duality in human nature, as well as society’s fear and mistrust of the unknown.