How does Mr. Richard Enfield's approach to unsettling events differ from Mr. Utterson's?

Enfield prefers to observe disturbing incidents, like Hyde trampling the girl, and then dismiss them, adhering to his "rule" against prying into "Queer Street." Utterson, driven by loyalty and a need for truth, actively investigates and pursues the mystery, even if it means breaking social norms.

In what way does Enfield's character highlight the theme of Victorian hypocrisy?

Enfield maintains an outward appearance of respectability but hints at a less conventional private life, such as his late-night wanderings in "undesirable areas." This reflects the societal tendency to uphold decorum publicly while engaging in secretive or morally ambiguous actions privately.

How does Stevenson use Enfield's language to contrast with Utterson's more serious demeanor?

Enfield's language is often informal and conversational, reflecting an amiable nature but also a superficiality that avoids deep engagement with sinister topics. Utterson's language is more measured and formal, indicative of his rational and methodical approach to life and investigation.

What is a common misconception about Enfield's role in the narrative?

A common misconception is viewing Enfield as merely a passive observer with no significant impact. In reality, his "Story of the Door" is the crucial catalyst that sparks Utterson's investigation, driving the entire plot forward.

What mistake might a reader make when interpreting Enfield's "amiable" nature?

While amiable, it's a mistake to see Enfield as purely good or straightforward. His amiability can mask a superficiality and a preference for avoiding uncomfortable truths, which aligns with the Victorian societal tendency to prioritize appearances over genuine moral engagement.

What is the significance of Enfield's "rule" about not asking questions in "Queer Street," and what error does it highlight?

This rule signifies a deliberate avoidance of unpleasant realities and a preference for maintaining social decorum over seeking truth. The error it highlights is the societal tendency to turn a blind eye to moral transgressions for the sake of preserving reputation and avoiding scandal.

Define Mr. Richard Enfield's primary narrative function in *Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde*.

Enfield's primary narrative function is to serve as the initial informant, providing the "Story of the Door" that introduces Mr. Hyde and his mysterious connection to Dr. Jekyll. This account acts as the inciting incident for Utterson's subsequent investigation.

What specific event recounted by Enfield directly leads to Utterson's concern about Hyde?

Enfield recounts witnessing Mr. Hyde trampling a young girl and then using a key to enter a door connected to Dr. Jekyll's property. This disturbing incident, coupled with Hyde's unsettling demeanor, deeply troubles Utterson.

How is Enfield's social standing generally presented in the novella?

Enfield is presented as a respectable Victorian gentleman, a kinsman and friend to the upright Mr. Utterson. He is part of the established social order, valuing discretion and maintaining a proper public image, typical of his class.

How does Enfield's character contribute to the novella's exploration of the theme of duality?

Enfield contributes to the theme of duality by embodying the contrast between outward respectability and potential hidden aspects of character. His seemingly upright public persona is subtly undermined by hints of secretive night-time activities, mirroring the larger duality of Jekyll and Hyde.

Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde: Mr Richard Enfield Character Analysis | AQA GCSE English Literature

2. The 19th Century Novel

Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde: Mr Richard Enfield Character Analysis

Summary

Mr. Richard Enfield serves as a crucial, albeit minor, character in Robert Louis Stevenson's Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, primarily functioning as a catalyst for the plot and a symbol of Victorian societal hypocrisy. He embodies the outward respectability of a gentleman while subtly hinting at a hidden, less conventional private life, contrasting with Utterson's active pursuit of truth.

1. Definition & Core Role

Minor Character, Major Impact: Mr. Richard Enfield is presented as a relatively minor character in Robert Louis Stevenson's Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, yet his initial observations are pivotal to the novella's unfolding mystery. He is primarily known through his regular Sunday walks and conversations with Mr. Utterson, acting as a foil and confidant.
Catalyst for Investigation: Enfield's recounting of "The Story of the Door" directly instigates Mr. Utterson's deep concern and subsequent investigation into Mr. Hyde and his mysterious connection to Dr. Jekyll. Without Enfield's narrative, Utterson might not have been prompted to delve into the unsettling affairs of his friend.

2. Character Traits & Presentation

Outward Respectability: Enfield is consistently portrayed as a respectable Victorian gentleman, a "distant kinsman" and friend to the equally upright Utterson. He adheres to the social conventions of his era, valuing discretion and maintaining a proper public image.
Underlying Ambiguity: Despite his respectable facade, Stevenson subtly introduces elements that hint at a more complex or even morally ambiguous private life. His presence in an "undesirable area at such a late hour" suggests activities that might not align with strict Victorian propriety, raising questions about his own hidden secrets.
Amiable but Indifferent: Enfield is depicted as amiable and friendly, enjoying his weekly strolls with Utterson and offering advice to Jekyll. However, he also displays a certain indifference to Hyde's violence, initially content to let the matter rest after compensation, which underscores a preference for avoiding scandal over pursuing justice.

3. Narrative Function

Plot Instigator: Enfield's primary narrative role is to introduce the enigmatic figure of Mr. Hyde and his disturbing behavior to Utterson, thereby setting the central mystery in motion. His eyewitness account of Hyde trampling the girl and using a key to Jekyll's door compels Utterson to investigate further.
Foil to Utterson: He serves as a narrative foil to Utterson, highlighting Utterson's more active and determined pursuit of truth. While Enfield prefers to avoid "Queer Street" and dismiss unsettling matters, Utterson is driven by loyalty and a sense of duty to uncover the hidden realities.
Reinforcing Mystery: By presenting Hyde through Enfield's secondhand account, Stevenson initially shrouds the character in mystery and allows the reader to experience Hyde's unsettling nature through the eyes of an ordinary, albeit somewhat detached, observer. This technique builds suspense before Hyde's direct appearance.

4. Symbolism & Social Commentary

5. Language & Communication Style

6. Key Distinctions & Contrasts

7. Exam Strategy & Tips