What is the primary difference between Dr. Lanyon's and Dr. Jekyll's views on science?

Lanyon represents 'rational' science focused on the material world, while Jekyll pursues 'transcendental' science that attempts to manipulate the human soul. Lanyon views Jekyll's work as 'unscientific balderdash' because it crosses into the metaphysical.

How does the character of Mr. Hyde reflect Victorian scientific anxieties about evolution?

Hyde is frequently described with animalistic terms like 'ape-like' and 'troglodytic.' This reflects the Darwinian fear that humans could 'devolve' or revert to a primitive, savage state if the constraints of civilization and religion were removed.

What is the significance of the phrase 'Satan’s signature' in the context of science and religion?

It is a metaphor used by Utterson to describe Hyde’s face, suggesting that his physical 'deformity' is a scientific proof of his evil nature. It blends the pseudo-science of physiognomy with religious concepts of damnation.

Why is it a mistake to view Dr. Jekyll as a purely 'good' scientist at the start of the narrative?

Jekyll’s scientific motivation is rooted in 'pride' and a desire to separate his 'evil' side so he can indulge in it without social consequence. This selfish use of science is a moral failing that religion would condemn as 'playing God.'

What does the 'laboratory' symbolize in relation to the theme of science?

The laboratory symbolizes the secretive, isolated, and potentially dangerous nature of scientific pursuit when it is detached from the moral community. Its 'blistered and distained' door reflects the corruption of the science practiced within.

Define 'Physiognomy' and its role in the novella.

Physiognomy is the 19th-century pseudo-science of judging character from facial features. In the text, Hyde’s repulsive appearance is used as 'scientific' evidence of his religious and moral depravity.

How does Lanyon’s death serve as a commentary on the limits of science?

Lanyon, a man of rational science, dies because he cannot mentally process the 'supernatural' scientific reality of Jekyll’s transformation. His death suggests that traditional science is ill-equipped to handle the darker depths of human nature.

What error do students make when discussing the 'potion' in the novella?

Students often treat the potion as a magical element rather than a scientific one. It is important to frame it as a 'chemical concoction' that represents the Victorian fear of how chemistry could be used to alter the human psyche.

Compare the 'Old World' (Carew) with the 'Modern World' (Jekyll's Science).

Sir Danvers Carew represents 'old-world' kindness and traditional religious decorum, while Jekyll’s science represents a dangerous, modern 'playing with fire.' Hyde’s murder of Carew symbolizes the destruction of traditional values by modern scientific impulses.

What is 'Cain’s heresy' and how does it relate to the theme?

It refers to the biblical story of Cain and Abel, specifically Cain's question, 'Am I my brother's keeper?' In the novella, it reflects the scientific and moral dilemma of whether one is responsible for the 'evil' side of their nature.

Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde Key Theme: Science and Religion | AQA GCSE English Literature

2. The 19th Century Novel

Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde Key Theme: Science and Religion

Summary

The conflict between science and religion in the Victorian era serves as the ideological backbone of the novella. It explores the tension between traditional religious morality and the burgeoning, often unsettling, advancements in scientific experimentation and evolutionary theory.

1. Definition & Core Concepts

Scientific Radicalism: Represented by Dr. Jekyll, this concept involves pushing the boundaries of natural law through experimental chemistry and psychology to alter human nature.
Religious Orthodoxy: The prevailing Victorian belief system that viewed the soul as a divine, indivisible entity and regarded any attempt to manipulate it as a 'heresy' or 'playing God'.
Materialism vs. Transcendentalism: The debate over whether human behavior is purely biological (material) or governed by a spiritual, moral soul (transcendental).

A conceptual diagram showing the overlapping and conflicting spheres of Religion and Science in the Victorian era.

2. Underlying Principles: The Scientific Feud

The Lanyon-Jekyll Schism: This conflict illustrates the divide between Rational Science (Lanyon) and Mystical/Experimental Science (Jekyll). Lanyon views Jekyll's work as 'unscientific balderdash' because it abandons empirical logic for metaphysical meddling.
Evolutionary Anxiety: The late 19th-century fear that humans could 'devolve' into primitive states. This is manifested in the character of Hyde, who is described with 'ape-like' and 'troglodytic' traits, reflecting Darwinian fears of animalistic ancestry.
Physiognomy: The pseudo-scientific belief that a person's outward physical appearance reflects their inner moral state. Hyde’s 'deformity' is a physical manifestation of his 'evil' soul, a concept that bridges the gap between biological science and religious morality.

3. Methods & Symbolic Applications

Chemical Transformation: The use of a 'drug' or 'concoction' serves as the catalyst for the narrative. It represents the power of science to bypass the slow process of moral self-discipline usually advocated by religion.
Biblical Allusions: The text uses religious language to describe scientific failures. Terms like 'Satan’s signature' or 'Cain’s heresy' are applied to scientific results to frame them within a moral context understandable to a Victorian audience.
The Laboratory vs. The Church: The physical setting of the laboratory—hidden, windowless, and secretive—contrasts with the public, transparent nature of religious life, symbolizing the 'dark' side of unchecked scientific pursuit.

4. Key Distinctions: Traditional vs. Radical Science

5. Exam Strategy & Tips

6. Common Pitfalls & Misconceptions