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J and H Context - Coggle Diagram
J and H Context
Homosexuality
In an early draft Stevenson has Jekyll confess he became 'the slave of certain appetites', making people wonder what these are.
At first the relationship between J and H must have appeared puzzling to the reader and characters, Stevenson because of the era couldn't make specific references to homosexuality, but much of the plot initially hints at Hyde blackmailing Jekyll because of the doctor's unorthodox sexual preferences.
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The entire story is played out amongst a small circle of unmarried men and implied by comments homosexuality is a thinly- veiled theme throughout.
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Double conscious
Differing appearances play on the theories of Charles Darwin's work whilst their differing personalities explore contemporary debates on moral behaviour and possible plurality of human consciousness.
By splitting the consciousness of Jekyll in 2 he explores the battles played out in every one of us (surpressing desires thatr run contrart to the dictates of society and amoral side that runs riot and gratifies animal desires).
Through Hyde, Jekyll is freed from restraints of society and can indulge in sensual and disreputable appetites but giving up Jekyll means giving up noble aspirations and being forever despised and friendless.
Whitechapel Murders 1888
In a macabre twist, real life events began to overlay with the narrative. Whitechapel Murders occurred in 1888 and the real murders were link to the fictious ones of Mr Hyde.
They became so entangled Richard Mansfield who played J and H in the stage adaption was accused of being the ripper by some members of the public.
Overview
Is inspired by Mary Shelley's Frankenstein however Stevensons monster is unleashed from the dark side of human personality.
Stevenson shows dual nature of man, society and even London.