'Jekyll and Hyde': the importance of science and religion in the novella
I can explain Stevenson’s views on science and religion and how these materialise in the novella.
'Jekyll and Hyde': the importance of science and religion in the novella
I can explain Stevenson’s views on science and religion and how these materialise in the novella.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Arguably, Stevenson is critical of trangressive scientists.
- Stevenson plays on the real fears of scientific development and Darwinism in his novella.
- Stevenson, raised a strict Calvinist, rejected his faith.
- Calvinism was an evangelical branch of Christianity.
- Stevenson is arguably very critical of the role Christianity played in the moral and political aspects of society.
Keywords
The Enlightenment - the period in which people began to value reason and rationale as a means to pursuing truth, knowledge and freedom
To transgress - violate a boundary, law or social norm; go beyond established limits or norms
Evangelical - adherence to conservative religious beliefs
Progressive - favouring progress, reform or innovation; open to new ideas and social improvement
Piety - deeply religious devotion; demonstrating a strong commitment to religious principles
Common misconception
All Christians were against scientific development.
Within all religions (or groups in society) there will be plurality of thought, including progressive viewpoints.
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 discriminatory behaviour
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
Loading...