Mr. Utterson Quotes Analysis

• He is the detective figure that allows the story to be dramatically discovered by the readers

  Utterson is described as a 'lover of the sane' demonstrating how he is a sensible character, his opinions can be trusted and therefore be replicated by us as readers
• Utterson is used to collect the information told through various mediums and characters, ad thus compacts the story and makes him Stevenson's envoy to the readers

  Utterson has two opposing characters, passive and assertive just like Hyde and Jekyll
• "rugged countenance that was never lighted by a smile"


  He adopts a serious, rough demeanor that never changes
• "dusty, dreary and yet somehow loveable"

  This contradiction immediately demonstrates the duality of Utterson's character. The alliteration of 'dusty and dreary' emphasizes his boring yet curious personality as in chapter 1. He appears to be lifeless yet as you go through the novella his personality changes. Stevenson may have done this to highlight the fact that duality may be present in every human being.
• "cold, scanty and embarrassed in discourse"

  He isn't overly expressive and is quite reserved. The epitome of a a Victorian gentleman.
• "tossed to and fro"

  He is used to demonstrate the effects of the horrific story on ordinary people. He is the voice of reason compared to the supernatural elements provided by Stevenson. Utterson is haunted by Hyde and even have dreams of him, reinforcing the readers image of Hyde as repulsive and truly frightening.
• "the last good influence"

  Utterson, by reputation is a loyal friend willing to help those around him.
• "If he be Mr. Hyde, I shall be Mr. Seek"

  This shows his determination to find out who this odd looking man causing chaos in London is and why he's the heir of Jekyll fortune. This signifies his good heart and willingness to be a good lawyer as well as a friend to Jekyll
• "My mind misgives me, he is in deep waters!"

  Utterson believes Jekyll is a victim of Hyde's crimes. This again shows his good character and blinding loyalty towards Jekyll. The use of the exclamation point shows panic on Utterson's end as he believes his good friend is in trouble.
• "God forgive us, God forgive us"

  Jekyll's transformation is unnatural. Utterson alongside Enfield asks God for forgiveness as they believe what they saw was a sin. In Victorian society, religion was huge factor in their lives and the use of repetition implies their fearful too.
• "That won't hold water"

  Utterson's reaction to the strange tale Poole told him. Utterson being rational person will always look for a straightforward explanation as the tale "doesn't commend itself to reason". Being a lawyer he always looked for evidence and reason.
• "I incline to Cain's heresy"

  Here, Utterson is declaring that he will not interfere in the affairs of his 'brother' and will not stand in the way of any wrongdoings. This links to the theme of reputation, where Victorian society were obsessed with their public image and would never be caught in a scandalous situation.