How does Dr. Jekyll’s letter show his internal struggle?
In Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic novel “The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde,” the character of Dr. Henry Jekyll embodies a profound internal struggle that is poignantly revealed through his letters. These letters serve as a window into the complex psychological landscape of Jekyll’s mind, exposing the battle between his good and evil natures, or as he refers to them, his “two natures.”
The first letter in the novel, written by Jekyll to his friend, Dr. Lanyon, is a crucial piece of evidence that illustrates his internal struggle. In this letter, Jekyll explains the creation of his experimental potion, which he believes can separate the “good” from the “bad” within him. He writes, “I have been trying to separate these conditions from each other, but it has hitherto been vain.” This statement highlights Jekyll’s desire to compartmentalize his darker impulses, suggesting that he is acutely aware of the moral ambiguity that plagues him.
Furthermore, Jekyll’s letter to his lawyer, Mr. Utterson, further underscores his internal conflict. In this letter, Jekyll confesses his concerns about the dangers of his experiment, acknowledging that “the mind of Jekyll and the body of Hyde are two separate entities.” This admission reveals Jekyll’s fear that his experiment may have gone too far, allowing the Hyde persona to take control over his life. The letter reads, “I am a broken man, Utterson, and I cannot bear to look upon my own face.” This sentiment reflects Jekyll’s despair and the profound impact that his internal struggle has had on his self-image.
Another significant letter in the novel is the one Jekyll writes to his wife, Mrs. Jekyll. In this letter, Jekyll pleads for her forgiveness, acknowledging that his actions have caused her immense pain. He writes, “I have sinned against you, my love, and I ask your forgiveness.” This letter demonstrates Jekyll’s guilt and his desire to make amends for his behavior. It also highlights the emotional turmoil he experiences as he grapples with the consequences of his experiment.
Throughout the novel, Jekyll’s letters serve as a testament to his internal struggle. They reveal his fear, his guilt, and his desperation to find a way to reconcile the two halves of his personality. The letters also serve as a narrative device that allows the reader to understand the progression of Jekyll’s descent into madness. As the story unfolds, the letters become increasingly erratic and disjointed, reflecting Jekyll’s deteriorating mental state.
In conclusion, Dr. Jekyll’s letters are a powerful tool in illustrating his internal struggle. They provide insight into the psychological turmoil that drives Jekyll’s actions and ultimately leads to his downfall. Through these letters, Stevenson masterfully portrays the complexities of human nature and the delicate balance between good and evil that resides within each of us.
