'Jekyll and Hyde': examining the novella's structure
I can explain how Stevenson uses narrative structure to present his ideas on duality in society.
'Jekyll and Hyde': examining the novella's structure
I can explain how Stevenson uses narrative structure to present his ideas on duality in society.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Stevenson uses conventions of epistolary fiction to foreground the importance of letters and documents.
- Letters provide clues as part of the detective plot, but also link to the theme of concealment.
- The secrecy created by the epistolary form could represent the upper classes attempts to conceal unsavoury behaviour.
- The majority of the novella is told in the third person limited, focalised through Utterson.
- A sense of mistrust is created through unreliable narrators and a non-linear narrative.
Common misconception
Just mentioning Stevenson's choices surrounding form and structure is valuable analysis.
All comments regarding Stevenson's use of form and structure should be tied back to Stevenson's purpose.
Keywords
Epistolary - a story told through letters or written communication between characters
Critique - a detailed evaluation, expressing opinions on merits and faults
Duality - the quality of having two sides or aspects - a dual nature
Concealment - the act of hiding or keeping something secret or out of sight
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
Loading...