1) Analyze what aspects of an addict Jekyll displays throughout the novel and provide examples from the novel and the article.
Throughout the novel, it is evident that Jekyll becomes addicted to Hyde. He become mesmerized with his evil side His first experience as transforming into Hyde is described as ecstasy and “as if he were, indeed, discovering the Kingdom of God that lies within” (Oates 3). He later gives into his urges to become Hyde more often, and eventually loses control of his transformations. He is “sold a slave to [his] original evil…[it] braced and delighted in [him] like wine” (Stevenson). Even though Jekyll knew he was surrendering himself over to this new identity, he embraced it. He soon lost control of his addiction to hide, and it ended up taking over him
2) Evaluate and explain the impact of high standards set during the Victorian Age had on Jekyll. During the Victorian Age, everyone was expected to be perfect. Looks played a large factor in this, as well as reputation. Jekyll had an admirable reputation in his community and was also very good looking. Yet, he always had an evil side inside of him. Unleashing this evil side could potentially risk his reputation within the community. This is why he decided to create Hyde. “Had the Victorian ideal been less hypocritically ideal or had Dr. Jekyll been content with a less perfect public reputation his tragedy would not have occurred” (Oates 3). The pressure society put on being flawless and having a perfect reputation forced Jekyll to repress his evil side. He repressed this side so much that he felt the need to muddle with nature, which led to the death of himself or others. This could have been avoided if the Victorian standards were not set so high. This connects with many other time periods, where the pressure to be perfect drives people to do the unthinkable.
