'Jekyll and Hyde' Chapter 1: Meeting Mr Utterson
I can explain how Stevenson presents Mr. Utterson in the opening of the novella.
'Jekyll and Hyde' Chapter 1: Meeting Mr Utterson
I can explain how Stevenson presents Mr. Utterson in the opening of the novella.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- In this opening chapter of his novella, Stevenson uses a third person narrator, focalised through Utterson
- Utterson is portrayed as a dull but reliable character who seems to live vicariously through others
- Stevenson draws attention to Utterson's profession, which proves that he is middle class
- The idea of social hierarchy is immediately introduced as Utterson is described as a 'gentleman'
- 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
Students might think that "third person limited" means the narrative is limited in scope or detail.
"Third person limited" means insight into one character's thoughts, not a story's limited scope.
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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