Utterson's Friendship with Jekyll

Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde

The deep bond of loyalty and concern between the lawyer and the doctor, tested by mystery and tragedy.

increasingupBearing stren­gth in each eventdowndecreasing
A Long AffectionA Long Affection
A Long Affection An Old Friend Utterson and Jekyll have been friends for many years. Utterson is one of the few people Jekyll trusts. They share a bond of mutual respect and affection. The Concern Begins When Utterson hears about Hyde, he becomes deeply worried. He sees Jekyll's will as a sign of danger. He wants to protect his friend. The First Attempt to Intervene Utterson tries to speak to Jekyll about the will, but Jekyll deflects. He assures Utterson that he can be rid of Hyde anytime. Utterson is not convinced.
The Growing DistanceThe Growing Distance
The Growing Distance Jekyll's Seclusion Jekyll begins to shut himself away. He refuses to see Utterson, and their friendship is strained. Utterson is hurt and worried. The Letter from Jekyll Jekyll writes a long letter explaining his seclusion, but he does not reveal the truth. He asks Utterson to respect his silence. Utterson is amazed and saddened. The Fear of Losing a Friend Utterson fears that Jekyll may be mad or in danger. He still loves his friend, but he cannot reach him. The bond is fraying.
The Final LossThe Final Loss
The Final Loss The Break-In Utterson, despite his fear, agrees to break into the cabinet. He is driven by his loyalty to Jekyll. He wants to save him, but it is too late. The Discovery of the Truth He reads Jekyll's confession and learns the full story. He understands that his friend is gone, consumed by Hyde. He mourns for him. The End of Friendship Utterson is left with the memory of his friend. He will protect Jekyll's reputation, but the friendship is over. The bond is broken by tragedy.
before the story, years of friendship
after the murder of Carew
the last night