Key Quotes Chapter 10

Key Quotes Chapter 10

Key Quotes from Chapter 10: Henry Jekyll’s Full Statement of the Case

Jekyll’s Dual Nature

  • “I learned to recognise the thorough and primitive duality of man.” - This quote highlights Jekyll’s belief that every person has two distinct sides - one good and one evil.
  • “Man is not truly one, but truly two.” - Similar to the previous point, this quote reinforces the theme of duality that is prevalent throughout the novel.

Jekyll’s Experimentation

  • “That night I had come to the fatal cross-roads.” - The symbolism of cross-roads, representing a crucial decision, emphasizes Jekyll’s understanding of the consequences of his experimentation.
  • “An agonised womb of consciousness, these polar twins should be constantly struggling.” - This quote underscores the perpetual conflict between good and evil within Jekyll, making his life a living agony.

The Emergence and Dominance of Hyde

  • “Edward Hyde, alone in the ranks of mankind, was pure evil.” - This quote unveils Jekyll’s deduction that his alter-ego, Hyde, embodies the pure essence of malevolence.
  • “The powers of Hyde seemed to have grown with the sickliness of Jekyll.” - This quote indicates that as Jekyll weakens, Hyde’s dominance and power increase.

Jekyll’s Acceptance and Fear

  • “If I am the chief of sinners, I am the chief of sufferers also.” - This quote shows Jekyll’s acceptance of his deed and his suffering.
  • “I was slowly losing hold of my original and better self, and becoming slowly incorporated with my second and worse.” - This signifies Jekyll’s fear of losing his morality and humanity to his darker side, Hyde.