The Limits of Friendship

The theme that friendship cannot save someone from self-destruction, as seen in Utterson's helplessness.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

The Friend's Concern

The Friend's Concern Utterson's Efforts Utterson does everything he can to help Jekyll. He investigates, he tries to talk, he offers assistance. He is a loyal friend. The Rejection of Help Jekyll refuses to let Utterson help. He says it is a private matter. He will not confide in him. The limits of friendship are clear. The Frustration of the Friend Utterson is frustrated by his inability to help. He can only watch as Jekyll deteriorates. Friendship is not enough to overcome Jekyll's inner demons.

The Helplessness of Loyalty

The Helplessness of Loyalty The Sealed Envelope Utterson receives Lanyon's envelope, but he cannot open it. He is bound by his promise. He cannot act until after Jekyll's death. The Avoidance of the Friend Utterson begins to avoid Jekyll. He is relieved when he is denied admittance. The friendship is strained by the helplessness. The Final Failure When Utterson breaks into the cabinet, it is too late. Jekyll is already dead. The friend cannot save him. The theme is that friendship has limits.

The Aftermath of Loss

The Aftermath of Loss The Friend's Mourning Utterson is left to mourn. He has lost his friend despite his best efforts. The limits of friendship are painful. The Preservation of Reputation He decides to protect Jekyll's reputation. It is the last thing he can do for his friend. The friendship extends beyond death. The Sad Lesson The novel suggests that while friendship is valuable, it cannot overcome personal demons. Jekyll's tragedy is his own, and no friend could have saved him. The theme is a somber one.

early in the story

after the murder of Carew

the end of the novel