Introducing the Gothic in 'Jekyll and Hyde'
I can understand how Stevenson conforms to, and subverts, Gothic conventions in ‘Jekyll and Hyde’.
Introducing the Gothic in 'Jekyll and Hyde'
I can understand how Stevenson conforms to, and subverts, Gothic conventions in ‘Jekyll and Hyde’.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Gothic fiction is fascinated by strange places, yet Stevenson sets his story in London.
- The figure of Hyde allows Stevenson to explore violent differences in power.
- Gothic writing often focuses on irrational or illicit desires; Stevenson conforms to this.
- The uncanny is a key idea within the Gothic and links to duality, but also the human/ inhuman appearance of Hyde.
- Hyde seems to have supernatural powers and strength, conforming to the conventions of the gothic villain.
Keywords
Conform - To comply with certain rules, standards or laws.
Subvert - To corrupt or undermine something. In literature, if you subvert something you undermine what is expected.
Convention - The defining characteristics of a particular genre.
Genre - A particular style or category of literature.
Gothic - A genre of writing that is characterised by the inclusion of dark and supernatural elements.
Common misconception
'Jekyll and Hyde' is a stereotypically 'Gothic' novella.
Whilst certain elements of 'Jekyll and Hyde' do follow the conventions of the Gothic, others subvert it.
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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