To what extent is Mr Jekyll a tragic hero?
The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson is a classic exploration of duality and the complexities of human nature. At the heart of this narrative lies Dr. Henry Jekyll, a character whose transformation into the malevolent Mr. Hyde epitomizes the struggle between good and evil within a single individual. To determine whether Dr. Jekyll fits the mold of a tragic hero, it is essential to examine his character through the lens of classical tragedy. This entails evaluating his noble stature, tragic flaw (hamartia), recognition of his flaw (anagnorisis), and the evocation of pity and fear (catharsis) in the audience.
Noble Stature and Initial Virtue
Dr. Jekyll's noble stature is evident in his esteemed position within society. He is a well-respected scientist and physician, renowned for his intellect and contributions to medicine. His initial virtue is underscored by his philanthropic efforts and genuine desire to contribute positively to society. This aligns with the Aristotelian concept of a tragic hero, who is typically a person of high standing and noble character, thereby making his eventual downfall more profound and impactful.
Hamartia: The Tragic Flaw
Jekyll's tragic flaw is his unyielding ambition to transcend the moral limitations of human nature. His relentless pursuit of separating the dual aspects of his personality — the good and the evil — leads him to concoct a potion that transforms him into Mr. Hyde. This hubris, or excessive pride, blinds him to the potential consequences of his actions. Jekyll's ambition to overcome the inherent duality of man is a quintessential example of hamartia, as it sets in motion a series of events that culminate in his tragic downfall.
The Duality of Human Nature
Central to Jekyll’s character is his belief in the duality of human nature. He perceives the human soul as a battleground for an "angel" and a "fiend," each vying for dominance. This philosophical introspection, while initially virtuous in its pursuit of self-understanding, becomes his undoing. Jekyll’s experiments, driven by his tragic flaw, inadvertently release his darker half, Mr. Hyde, who embodies pure malevolence. This duality and the subsequent struggle between Jekyll and Hyde serve as a potent metaphor for the internal conflict that defines the human experience.
Anagnorisis: Recognition of the Flaw
Jekyll's anagnorisis, or moment of critical discovery, occurs when he realizes that he can no longer control his transformations into Hyde. Initially, the metamorphosis is voluntary and under Jekyll's command, but it soon becomes spontaneous and uncontrollable. This recognition is pivotal as Jekyll comprehends the magnitude of his error and the inevitable consequences of his overreaching ambition. His acknowledgment of the irreversible damage caused by his actions is a hallmark of the tragic hero’s journey.
Catharsis: Evoking Pity and Fear
Stevenson's narrative evokes both pity and fear, essential components of catharsis in tragedy. Readers sympathize with Jekyll, understanding his noble intentions and the tragic flaw that leads to his demise. The fear emerges from the uncontrollable nature of Hyde and the representation of latent evil within all individuals. Jekyll’s transformation into Hyde and his subsequent loss of control serve as a cautionary tale about the dangers of tampering with the fundamental aspects of human nature.
Dr. Jekyll’s noble stature, tragic flaw of unchecked ambition, the consequential anagnorisis, and the evocation of pity and fear align with the classical definition of a tragic hero. Stevenson’s portrayal of Jekyll’s transformation into Hyde underscores the perilous nature of humanity’s dual aspects and the catastrophic outcomes of attempting to sever them. Thus, Jekyll's character serves as a profound exploration of the tragic hero archetype, providing timeless insights into the human condition and the eternal struggle between good and evil.
