gothic genre

• 1. Atmosphere of Mystery and Suspense: Stevenson creates an atmosphere of mystery and suspense by setting the story in the fog-bound, labyrinthine streets of Victorian London. The city itself becomes a character, shrouded in darkness and secrecy, evoking a sense of foreboding and unease.
• Duality and Transformation: The central theme of duality and the transformation of Dr. Jekyll into Mr. Hyde lends a distinctly gothic element to the narrative. The idea of a single individual harboring two distinct identities, one of which is monstrous and uncontrollable, invokes the supernatural and the uncanny
• 1. Haunted and Decaying Settings: Throughout the novella, Stevenson depicts settings that are reminiscent of gothic literature, such as the dilapidated laboratory where Jekyll conducts his experiments and the sinister, run-down Soho district where Hyde resides. These settings contribute to the overall sense of gloom and decay that pervades the story.
• 1. Gothic Archetypes and Characters: Stevenson employs gothic archetypes, such as the mad scientist (Dr. Jekyll) and the monstrous other (Mr. Hyde), to heighten the sense of horror and suspense. These characters embody the darker aspects of human nature and the grotesque, which are central themes in gothic literature.
• 1. Exploration of the Subconscious and Repressed Desires: The novella delves into the subconscious mind and the repressed desires of its characters, which are common themes in gothic literature. Jekyll's desire to unleash his darker impulses and Hyde's embodiment of those impulses speak to the psychological underpinnings of the gothic genre.
• 1. Psychological Suppression: Jekyll is not repulsed by Hyde because Hyde is, in fact, a manifestation of Jekyll's own repressed desires and darker impulses. Rather than being an external entity, Hyde represents a part of Jekyll's own psyche that he has suppressed and denied. As such, Jekyll is drawn to Hyde because he embodies the aspects of Jekyll's personality that he has repressed but still desires to explore.
• 1. Fascination and Curiosity: Jekyll is fascinated by Hyde because he represents the fulfillment of Jekyll's desires without the constraints of societal norms or moral inhibitions. Hyde's uninhibited behavior and freedom from consequences intrigue Jekyll, leading him to experiment further with his transformation despite the inherent risks.
• 1. Sense of Control: Initially, Jekyll believes that he can control Hyde and compartmentalize his darker impulses. He sees Hyde as a means to indulge in his desires without tarnishing his own reputation or identity. Therefore, Jekyll may not feel repulsed by Hyde because he views him as a tool or alter ego rather than a separate entity.
• 1. Addiction and Dependency: As the story progresses, Jekyll's relationship with Hyde becomes increasingly complex, with Hyde exerting more control over Jekyll's life. Jekyll becomes dependent on Hyde to satisfy his desires, leading to a sense of entrapment rather than repulsion. Jekyll may rationalize his behavior and justify his continued association with Hyde as a necessary evil to fulfill his desires.