In Robert Louis Stevenson's novel "The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde," the appearance of the street and house in which Dr. Jekyll lives plays a significant role in creating the setting of the story. The description of the house and street not only sets the tone for the story but also helps to develop the characters and themes.
The house of Dr. Jekyll is located in a respectable part of London, where the streets are wide and well-maintained. It is a tall and handsome building, with many windows and a well-maintained facade. The house is described as having a certain air of luxury and refinement, with its high walls and large garden. The street is also described as being lined with other large, impressive houses, giving the impression of a wealthy and prosperous neighborhood.
The appearance of Dr. Jekyll's house and street helps to create the setting of the story in several ways. Firstly, it sets the tone for the story by creating an atmosphere of wealth and privilege. This sense of luxury is juxtaposed against the dark, seedy alleys and impoverished neighborhoods that are later described in the story. This contrast between light and dark, good and evil, is a central theme of the novel.
Secondly, the appearance of the house and street helps to develop the characters of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. Dr. Jekyll is a wealthy, respected member of society, and his elegant home reflects this. On the other hand, Mr. Hyde, who is revealed to be Dr. Jekyll's alter ego, is associated with the darker, more squalid parts of the city. This contrast in appearance helps to emphasize the duality of human nature that is explored throughout the novel.
Finally, the appearance of the house and street helps to foreshadow the events that occur later in the story. The grandeur and elegance of Dr. Jekyll's house is ultimately revealed to be a facade, hiding the dark secrets and experiments that take place inside. Similarly, the respectable, wealthy appearance of the street is revealed to be a mask for the darker, more sinister aspects of society.
In conclusion, the appearance of the street and house in which Dr. Jekyll lives is an important aspect of the setting of "The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde." The luxurious, refined appearance of the house and street creates an atmosphere of wealth and privilege, helps to develop the characters, and foreshadows the events of the story. The contrast between light and dark, good and evil, is a central theme of the novel, and the appearance of the house and street helps to emphasize this theme.
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