Key Quotes Chapter 7

Chapter 7: Incident at the Window - Key Quotes and Analysis

Key Conversations and Behaviour:

“If it came to a trial, your name might appear” - Utterson, talking about Jekyll’s involvement with Hyde, insists that Jekyll must break ties to protect his reputation. This demonstrates the importance of reputation in the Victorian era.
“I swear to God I will never set eyes on him again.” - Dr. Jekyll’s desperate promise to Utterson about Hyde. Even though he’s unable to keep it, this quote shows Jekyll’s inner struggle with his dual nature.

Jekyll’s Seclusion:

“His habits were altered; he shut himself in,” - This quote describes how Jekyll become a recluse, suggesting his struggling control over Hyde.
“disconsolately at the fire,” - Jekyll’s gloomy demeanor around Enfield and Utterson hints at his internal torment.

Appearance of Dr. Jekyll:

“The smile was struck out of his face and succeeded by an expression of such abject terror and despair” - This quote represents the drastic change in Jekyll’s appearance and demeanor. The words abject terror and despair emphasize the psychological torment Jekyll experiences.
“He did not rise to meet his visitor” - Jekyll’s rude behaviour contrasts significantly with his usual polite demeanor, reflecting his increasing mental instability.

The Window Incident:

“a large, well-made, smooth-faced man of fifty,” - The description of Jekyll before he suddenly changes behind the window, reminding us of his dual personality.
“The death warrant written legibly upon his face. The rosy man had grown pale; his flesh had fallen away; he was visibly balder and older,” - The transformation of Jekyll into Hyde behind the window is rapid, showing the dominance of the Hyde persona.

Remember these key quotes, as they provide significant insight into the novel’s themes like duality, repression, and the nature of evil as well as the progression of Dr. Jekyll’s dilemma.