'Jekyll and Hyde': examining Lanyon as a foil to Jekyll
I can explain how Dr. Lanyon acts as a foil to Henry Jekyll.
'Jekyll and Hyde': examining Lanyon as a foil to Jekyll
I can explain how Dr. Lanyon acts as a foil to Henry Jekyll.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- In literature, a foil is a contrasting character who highlights another’s qualities or flaws.
- Lanyon acts as a foil to Jekyll in the novella.
- Lanyon represents the rational and reputable face of science, highlighting Jekyll’s recklessness.
- Some argue that Lanyon represents Stevenson’s own criticisms of unfettered scientific experimentation.
- Lanyon and Jekyll’s conflict may represent the contemporary concerns about science.
Keywords
Foil - a character contrasting with the main character, highlighting differences
Protagonist - the main character in a story, often the hero
Reckless - acting without thinking, taking risks without considering consequences
Unfettered - free and unrestrained, not held back or restricted
Common misconception
Stevenson was extremely critical of science.
Stevenson certainly plays on contemporary fears over unfettered scientific development. Whilst his novella could be seen as a criticism of this, the extent to which which Stevenson uses the text as his own personal criticism is arguable.
Equipment
You will need access to a copy of 'The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde' by Robert Louis Stevenson for this lesson.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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