Themesin

The Strange Case of

Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

What is a theme?• A theme is an idea or message that a

writer is exploring through a literary work.

• These ideas are universal, meaning everyone can relate to or understand them.

• These ideas or messages attempt to say, question or teach something about life, human existence, and the society and world we live in.

• A theme is not the subject, topic or plot.• A theme is the deeper meaning of the

story.

What is a motif?

• A motif is a recurring object, place or image that is symbolic in nature and usually connects to the deeper meaning or themes of a literary work

Themes in Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

Subject: Duality in human nature

• Is it possible for a person to be both good and evil?• If so, what makes this possible?• Does this duality exist for everyone?• Should we accept our duality, or should we strive to be

wholly one way?• What are the consequences of denying our duality, or

repressing one side of ourselves?

*There are opposing forces in all things*There are opposing forces within all people

Themes in Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

Subject: The Effects of Society on the Individual

Stevenson shows the civilizing influence as well the restricting and debilitating effects of society.

• How do societal expectations shape our behavior?• Is it always right to conform to societal expectations?• When is it acceptable to reject societies expectations?• What are the consequences of adhering to or ignoring

societal expectations?

Themes in Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

Subject: Reason vs. supernatural

Stevenson shows the limits of reason and science in dealing with the unexplainable.• How do we explain what science cannot?• How much do we cling to superstitions

even if we know they are not real?• What are the consequences of relying too

much on reason and science?

Themes in Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

Subject: ScientificExperimentation• Should there be limits?• What should these limits be?• Who should establish them?• What could be the consequences

when science goes too far or not far enough?

Themes in Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

• As we read the novella, consider the commentary the author is making on each of the subjects we discussed in these notes.

• What does Stevenson want readers to understand about the subjects he explores in his work?