# Dr. Jekyll Was Quite at Ease explained — The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

> Chapter companion for The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson.

## What happens

At a dinner party hosted by Dr. Jekyll, Mr. Utterson stays behind to confront Jekyll about his will and his association with Mr. Hyde. Jekyll becomes pale and defensive, insisting the matter is private and that he can rid himself of Hyde whenever he chooses. He asks Utterson to promise to protect Hyde's interests after Jekyll's death, and Utterson reluctantly agrees.

## Themes in this chapter

### Repression and Secrecy

Jekyll's defensive and evasive responses to Utterson's questions about Hyde highlight the theme of secrecy and the repression of truth.

### Friendship and Loyalty

Utterson's persistent concern for Jekyll and his eventual promise to protect Hyde demonstrate deep loyalty and the bonds of friendship.

## Character check-ins

### Mr. Utterson

Stays after dinner to confront Jekyll about the will and Hyde; reluctantly promises to protect Hyde's interests.

### Dr. Henry Jekyll

Hosts a dinner; becomes pale and defensive when Utterson raises the topic of Hyde; insists he can be rid of Hyde at will and asks Utterson to promise to help Hyde.

### Mr. Edward Hyde

Discussed as the beneficiary of Jekyll's will; Jekyll expresses a great interest in him and asks Utterson to protect him.

### Dr. Hastie Lanyon

Mentioned by Jekyll as a 'hidebound pedant' who disapproves of Jekyll's scientific heresies.

## Key lines

> I have been wanting to speak to you, Jekyll. You know that will of yours?

Utterson initiates a conversation about Jekyll's will.

_Utterson directly raises the sensitive topic of the will, showing his determination to address the issue._

> the moment I choose, I can be rid of Mr. Hyde. I give you my hand upon that

Jekyll claims he can end his association with Hyde whenever he wants.

_Jekyll asserts control over his connection to Hyde, though his earlier pallor suggests inner turmoil._

> I only ask you to help him for my sake, when I am no longer here.

Jekyll requests Utterson to assist Hyde after Jekyll's death.

_Jekyll's plea underscores his deep, unexplained investment in Hyde's welfare._

## Links

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