Poole

• Who is Mr. Poole in "Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde"?


  Mr. Poole is Dr. Jekyll’s butler.
• How long has Mr. Poole been in service to Dr. Jekyll?


  Mr. Poole has been in service for over twenty years.
• What are the three specific functions of Mr. Poole in the novel?


  • Advances the plot by connecting Mr. Utterson to Jekyll's happenings.
  • Communicates important information about Jekyll and Hyde.
  • Acts as a gatekeeper between Jekyll and the outside world.
• How does Mr. Poole help advance the plot in the novel?


  He brings Mr. Utterson closer to the scene of Jekyll’s mysterious happenings.
• Why does Mr. Poole invite Mr. Utterson into Jekyll’s home?


  Out of fear for the safety of himself, the house staff, and his master.
• What important information does Mr. Poole communicate to the reader?


  Jekyll’s extreme seclusion, an unfamiliar voice from the laboratory, and Hyde’s presence.
• How does Mr. Poole's bewilderment affect the story?


  It heightens the overall confusion and strangeness of the scenario.
• What does Mr. Poole's familiarity with Jekyll's situation imply?


  If Jekyll’s closest contact has no answers, then surely no one else will either.
• What is Mr. Poole's role as a gatekeeper in the novel?


  He determines who can enter Jekyll's home and protects Jekyll from the outside world.
• How does Mr. Utterson experience Mr. Poole's gatekeeping role?


  Utterson attempts to visit Jekyll at home but is unable to do so.
• How does Mr. Poole's role change throughout the novel?


  He initially protects Jekyll from the outside world but later connects with others on Jekyll's behalf.
• What is a primary example of Mr. Poole inviting the outside world in?


  He calls Mr. Utterson to the house and helps him break down the cabinet door.
• How does Mr. Poole act as a go-between for Jekyll and Dr. Lanyon?


  He seeks out large quantities of a particular salt and connects with other chemists.
• What influence does Mr. Poole's gatekeeping position have in the novel?


  It has a powerful influence over the passing of information.