The story of Dr. Jekyll and Hyde is one that majority of readers today are familiar with. When it comes to this story though, numerous themes are presented throughout the story making it one that can be revealed as confusing to other readers. The first thing I noticed when it came to this story was the importance of reputation within the text itself. I feel that the importance of reputation is something that is a constant worry for Dr. Jekyll and Hyde that sometimes they may get too caught up in the idea of how people see their character in other eyes.
“‘Good God!’ thought Mr. Utterson,’ can he, too, have been thinking of the will?’ But he kept his feelings to himself and only grunted in acknowledgment of the address. ‘And now,’ said the other, ‘how did you know me?’ ‘By description,’ was the reply. ‘Whose description?’ ‘We have common friends, said Mr. Utterson. ‘Common friends?’ echoed Mr. Hyde, a little hoarsely.’ Who are they?’ ‘Jekyll, for instance,’ said the lawyer. ‘He never told you,’ cried Mr. Hyde, with a flush of anger.’ I did not think you would have lied.’”
If you noticed, Mr. Hyde was very concerned in that excerpt about how Mr. Utterson had known of him. He seems to be uneasy at the fact that it is through common friends and by description. But why? Why was Mr. Hyde so concerned about this? Was there something that he was hiding? Well of course he was. This story seems to always revolve around who keeps whose secrets and what the consequences would be if those duties were not fulfilled. You see, Mr. Utterson is so adamant on keeping Jekyll’s appearance in the clear throughout the story that Hyde is only given the option to at least trust him for what he says. While also doing these things, the main idea that is presented is to keep away from gossip at all costs. This not only helps keep the reputation of the main characters in check throughout the story, but also keeps the promises of friendships to be alive through one another was salvaged.
