“Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” is a classic gothic novel depicting the complexities of life when people exhibit distinct personalities. The novel gives us a tour into an admired life of an England- based physician Dr. Jekyll. The protagonist Henry Jekyll is a composite that strengthens the theme of good versus evil by depicting a two-sided lifestyle. His dual nature and desire to experience life make him indulge in nefarious activities, subsequently changing his character. His transition from Jekyll to Hyde uncovers the darker side of this character by exposing his flaws. Some of the profound characteristics portrayed by Dr. Jekyll are that he is intelligent, determined, and erratic, which contributes to his character development.
Dr. Jekyll is an intelligent physician since he has various accolades and titles, such as M.D, also known as Doctor of Medicine, and LL.D, the Legum Doctor. All these academic recognition are the first indicator of a brilliant man dedicated to studies and is awarded for his intelligence to denote his professional qualification. Dr. Jekyll is also the wheel behind an innovation intended to separate good and evil since he considers his dark personality a burden he should remove. This innovation is the second thing indicating that he is intelligent. A third indicator is his wealth, proving he is smart since everything he does is successful. Finally, his intelligence leads to character development because he is motivated by his intellectual skills to protect and hide his weakness.
The protagonist also displays intense focus, indicating that he is determined. First, Dr. Jekyll is depicted as a successful career person and is ready to lose everything, such as his money and reputation, to achieve his ambitions. The second proof is his denervation to separate his evil and good side by creating a fictional Mr. Hyde, who is his darker side. This action indicates high levels of devotion and dedication toward this particular project. The third consideration is that. He also believes that he can conceal Mr. Hyde because he is brilliant. Through Hyde, Jekyll can transform into a villain without interfering with his good nature, and the hope to hide this truth worsens his character.
The character of this villain develops from being an intelligent master in medicine to an erratic symbol who is neither good nor evil. A close comparison reveals that Jekyll is charitable and welcoming, while Hyde is a monster involved in many criminal activities, such as canning the aristocratic man to death. The second example is that Jekyll is a humanitarian who donates to charity and gives out expensive wine to friends, while Hyde is a careless and selfish monster who tramped over a girl. Another factor is that Jekyll enjoys sharing his wealth and treats his friends to pleasant dinners, while Hyde is a lonely and miserable person.
Jekyll is a well-rounded character considering the fact that he has exhibited every trait. He is an exceptionally educated physician with a humanitarian heart. In addition, this protagonist is a brilliant researcher who pursues a mystical project of creating two sides, which strengthens his character. He portrays various characteristics, such as intelligence and determination, through his actions. On the other hand, he is erratic and exhibits unethical conduct, such as murder. This change in personality helps develop the character by exploring this protagonist’s good and evil sides.