The Doppelganger Motif in The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

Abstract

The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr.Hyde was written by Robert Louis Stevenson in the late Victorian era. During the time, there was a great deal of change that challenged old beliefs and experiences. One subject that interested many writers of the time dealt with the complex nature of human psyche. The Strange Case of Dr.Jekyll and Mr.Hyde is a psychological thriller which pre-dates Freud’s psychoanalysis. The duality of man is the motif or theme of Stevenson’s short novel which can be seen, for example, through his characterization, the characters’ dialogues, and the setting. The purpose of the article is to point out the motif or theme through these elements that are repeated and predominate in the story.