Context: Physiognomy

In the context of “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde”, physiognomy refers to the Victorian belief that a person’s outward appearance could reveal inner character traits. This concept is frequently employed in the narrative.

Physiognomy is a pseudoscience that was popular during the Victorian era, which influenced Stevenson’s depiction of characters.
Hyde’s deformed, repugnant appearance is used as a reflection of his immoral and evil nature. Central to this is the description where Hyde is referred to as “pale and dwarfish; he gave an impression of deformity without any nameable malformation.”
Dr Jekyll himself employs physiognomy, believing the concoction would only distort his appearance, not understanding it would also affect his personality – “think of it – I did not even exist!”
Utterson is the character most guided by these principles, demonstrating the pervasive societal norm – “a mark of a scarcely human murderer…” – Utterson responds to Hyde’s appearance rather than his behaviour.
This also hints towards Victorian hypocrisy as Utterson, who is stated to be a rational man, still believes in such unscientific presumption.
Irony is utilized here as despite their reliance on physiognomy, none of the characters can fully recognize the evil in their society, symbolized by Hyde.
This theme also correlates with the concept of evolution; Hyde’s almost animalistic description – “ape-like fury” – links the outdated practice of physiognomy to the emerging science of evolution, illustrating the era’s scientific and moral confusion.

Study Points

Understand how Stevenson uses the concept of physiognomy to differentiate between Jekyll and Hyde.
Examine the deeper theme of scientific and moral confusion in the setting.
Evaluate characters such as Utterson and their belief in physiognomy to gain an insight into Victorian societal norms.