Context: Deacon Brodie

Deacon Brodie was a real-life figure in 18th century Edinburgh known for living a double life, much like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. He was a respected city councillor and craftsman by day, and a notorious burglar and gambler by night.
Robert Louis Stevenson, the author of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, was fascinated by Deacon Brodie and even had a cabinet made by him.
This real-life figure heavily influenced Stevenson’s conceptualization of the dual character, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, demonstrating the theme of duality and duplicity present throughout the novel.
Although Deacon Brodie was eventually caught and hanged for his crimes, the legend of his double life continued to resonate in Edinburgh and influenced Stevenson’s work.

Key Takeaways

Understand the significance of Deacon Brodie’s duality and how it influenced Stevenson in shaping the character of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde
Examine the parallels between Deacon Brodie’s life and the character arc of Dr. Jekyll/Mr. Hyde
The concept of duality is an overarching theme present throughout the novel, echoed through multiple narrative and character elements.