'Jekyll and Hyde': exploring the duplicity of the upper class characters
I can use context to explain the complicity of other characters in the actions of Hyde.
'Jekyll and Hyde': exploring the duplicity of the upper class characters
I can use context to explain the complicity of other characters in the actions of Hyde.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Whilst Jekyll is clearly culpable for the creation of Hyde, arguably others are complicit in his crimes.
- Dr. Lanyon learns the truth but chooses not to expose Jekyll.
- Utterson fails to take opportunities to unearth the truth, instead choosing to keep secrets sealed away.
- Through Enfield, and other characters, Stevenson is critical of the hypocrisy of the upper-middle classes.
Common misconception
Jekyll is the only character responsible for the crimes of Hyde.
A more nuanced understanding of the text explores the complicity of other characters and the decisions they make.
Keywords
Complicit - involvement in wrongdoing or playing a part in a questionable act
Duplicitous - being deceptive and lacking in honesty
Hypocrisy - pretending to be what one is not; saying one thing, doing another
to indulge - allow oneself to enjoy or have something pleasurable
Analogy - showing similarities to explain an idea
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 serious crime
- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision required
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).
Video
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