Hyde vs. Society

The conflict between the criminal Hyde and the respectable society he terrorizes.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

The First Assault

The First Assault A Public Outrage Hyde tramples a child in the street, showing a complete disregard for humanity. The crowd that gathers is filled with hatred. They want to see him punished. The Payment as a Suppression Hyde pays off the family, but the incident is a direct challenge to social order. Enfield and the others are appalled by his lack of remorse. The Seed of Outrage This event plants the idea that Hyde is a dangerous menace. Society will eventually seek to destroy him.

The Murder of a Public Figure

The Murder of a Public Figure The Ultimate Crime Hyde murders Sir Danvers Carew, a Member of Parliament. This is a direct attack on the establishment. The murder is brutal and senseless. The Manhunt Society responds with a massive manhunt. Thousands of pounds are offered for Hyde's capture. The police and the public are united in their desire to bring him to justice. The Conflict Becomes Personal Hyde's face becomes the symbol of evil. He is hunted, and his existence is a threat to all. The conflict is now between one man and the entire social order.

The Fugitive's End

The Fugitive's End The Final Act of Defiance Hyde, trapped in the cabinet, chooses suicide over capture. He poisons himself, escaping the gallows. He has lost the conflict with society, but he cheats its justice. The Aftermath Society is left with a body and a mystery. The newspapers will report the suicide, but the full truth will remain hidden. The conflict ends with Hyde's death, but the scars remain. The Symbolic Victory Hyde's suicide is a final act of defiance. He has destroyed himself, but he has also destroyed Jekyll. The conflict between evil and society is resolved in tragedy.

winter morning, early in the story

October, 18—

the last night