Victoria Society, common believed in physiognomy . It was believed that criminals had distinctive physical features distinguish them from others. The fact that Jekyll seems physically flawless portray the facade of respectability and perhaps hence the falsity of physiognomy as we learn Jekyll has evil within him
‘ a large, well-made, smooth-faced man of fifty… Every mark of capacity and kindness’
The first tangible description of Jekyll painting as are almost artificial, he seems that archetype of a respectable gentleman yeah almost to the extent where he seems Manufactured
The phrase ‘ smooth-faced man of fifty’ is unorthodox and perhaps even paradox as a 50-year-old man would typically be etched with wrinkles and a sign of age
furthermore, this description is important to portray him as the antithesis of hyde , he is large compared to the hydes particularly ‘small stature’
‘ large hands face of Dr. jekyll to the very lips’
The very mention of hyde psychological effects in jekyll
’ handsome’ places emphasis on Jekyll as idealised and respectable, his seeming perfection is overtly celebrated suggesting the pressure upon him
Comparison through the text
Jackals appearance becomes significant as a transforms throughout the novella. Later he described as looking ‘ deadly sick’ implying a withered appearance, he seems to age and degrade rapidly as a result of the stress of bottling hyde
