Dr. Lanyon in 'Jekyll and Hyde': a curious character
I can make links between the characterisation of Lanyon and Stevenson’s key themes of hypocrisy and concealment.
Dr. Lanyon in 'Jekyll and Hyde': a curious character
I can make links between the characterisation of Lanyon and Stevenson’s key themes of hypocrisy and concealment.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- Lanyon may seem like a foil to Jekyll, but ultimately he also succumbs to his curiosity
- Lanyon and Jekyll have opposing scientific views: Lanyon more conventional, whereas Jekyll pushes boundaries
- By including their two first person narratives at the end of the novella, Stevenson invites comparison between the men
- Despite the tension between them, Lanyon continues to protect Jekyll's reputation until after his death
- Lanyon makes an active choice to witness Hyde's transformation, suggesting that he shares in the blame for his death
Keywords
Foil - In literature, a foil is a secondary character whose purpose is to highlight or accentuate some aspect of the main character.
Pedant - A pedant is someone who is excessively concerned with minor details.
Rational - If something is based on reason or logic then it is rational.
Complicity - Complicity is when someone is involved in an activity with others that is unlawful or morally wrong.
Concealment - If you are hiding something or preventing it being known, this is known as concealment.
Common misconception
Whether Dr. Lanyon being a foil for Dr. Jekyll is a straightforward answer.
Whether Lanyon is a foil for Jekyll is debatable. They have clear differences (e.g. scientific views) but similarities too (curiosity).
To help you plan your year 11 english lesson on: Dr. Lanyon in 'Jekyll and Hyde': a curious character, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 11 english lesson on: Dr. Lanyon in 'Jekyll and Hyde': a curious character, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
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Explore more key stage 4 english lessons from the Jekyll & Hyde: society as the villain unit, dive into the full secondary english curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
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
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Doctor
A chemical doctor
MP
Butler
Lawyer