Key learning points

1. In this opening chapter of his novella, Stevenson uses a third person narrator, focalised through Utterson
2. Utterson is portrayed as a dull but reliable character who seems to live vicariously through others
3. Stevenson draws attention to Utterson's profession, which proves that he is middle class
4. The idea of social hierarchy is immediately introduced as Utterson is described as a 'gentleman'
5. Utterson prides himself on his tact and despite his respectability, is a friend to 'downgoing' men

Keywords

• Third person limited - When a narrative reveals only one character's thoughts and feelings, it employs a third person limited perspective.

• Rugged - When terrain is rough and uneven, it is often described as rugged.

• Scanty - When there is only a small quantity available, it's referred to as scanty.

• Sentiment - Personal feelings or emotions, especially when influenced by individual views or experiences, are known as sentiment.

• Duality - In this novella, duality is an important theme - the idea there are two sides to every person.

Common misconception