Jekyll's Bond with Lanyon

The friendship between Jekyll and Lanyon, broken by scientific differences and ultimately by the revelation of the transformation.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Old Schoolmates

Old Schoolmates A Shared History Jekyll and Lanyon were friends at school and college. They have a deep bond of mutual respect. They are both thorough respectors of themselves and each other. The Scientific Split Over time, Lanyon becomes more materialistic, while Jekyll explores the mystical. They grow apart. Lanyon calls Jekyll's ideas 'fanciful' and 'unscientific'. The Strained Relation They still see each other occasionally, but the warmth is gone. Lanyon is disappointed in Jekyll. The friendship is a shell of what it once was.

The Final Request

The Final Request A Desperate Letter Jekyll, desperate and in danger of permanent transformation, writes to Lanyon. He asks for help, appealing to their old friendship. Lanyon, despite his doubts, agrees. The Execution of the Errand Lanyon retrieves the drawer from the cabinet. He is puzzled but feels a sense of obligation. He does not yet know the horror that awaits. The Witnessing of the Truth When Lanyon sees the transformation, the friendship is shattered. He is horrified by what Jekyll has become. The bond is broken by the revelation.

The Aftermath of Betrayal

The Aftermath of Betrayal Lanyon's Rejection Lanyon refuses to see or hear of Jekyll again. He calls him dead. The friendship is over, replaced by horror and disgust. Jekyll's Remorse Jekyll is deeply affected by the loss of his friend. He writes to Utterson that the quarrel with Lanyon is incurable. He feels the weight of his actions. The Death of the Friendship Lanyon dies, and with him, the last chance for reconciliation. The bond between them is forever broken by the truth of Jekyll's dual nature.

early in their lives

9th January

after the 9th January