Mr. Utterson's Evolving View Of Civility In Dr. Jekyll And Mr. Hyde
Exploring Robert Louis Stevenson's masterpiece, The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, offers a fascinating study of human nature, duality, and the Victorian societal obsession with civility and reputation. One of the most compelling aspects of the novel is observing how the protagonist, Mr. Utterson, a respectable lawyer, grapples with the unsettling events surrounding his friend Dr. Jekyll and the sinister Mr. Hyde. Utterson’s view of civility and proper behavior undergoes a subtle yet significant transformation throughout the narrative. Initially, he embodies the quintessential Victorian gentleman, adhering strictly to societal norms and valuing privacy above all else. However, as he delves deeper into the mystery, his understanding of civility evolves, forcing him to confront the limitations of a rigid social code in the face of true evil.
Utterson's Initial Stance on Civility and Privacy
At the outset of the novel, Mr. Utterson is portrayed as a man of staunch principles and unwavering adherence to the Victorian ideal of the reserved and proper gentleman. His civility is deeply intertwined with a commitment to privacy, both his own and that of his friends. He is a man of few words, careful in his interactions, and deeply respectful of social boundaries. This adherence to decorum is not merely a superficial performance but a core aspect of his identity. Utterson's legal profession further reinforces this commitment to order and discretion; he is a guardian of secrets, a confidant who values the sanctity of personal affairs. His famous quote, “I incline to Cain’s heresy,” reveals a man who prefers to keep his own counsel, bearing his burdens silently and avoiding unnecessary intrusion into the lives of others. This initial view of civility is rooted in maintaining social harmony through distance and discretion.
Utterson's world is one where reputation is paramount, and the slightest hint of scandal can ruin a man's standing. This fear of social disgrace permeates Victorian society, influencing behavior and shaping interactions. Utterson, as a pillar of his community, is acutely aware of these social pressures. His concern for Dr. Jekyll stems not only from friendship but also from a deep-seated anxiety about the potential damage that Jekyll's association with Hyde could inflict on his friend's reputation and, by extension, on the social fabric of their circle. Utterson’s initial approach to the mystery is therefore characterized by a cautious and measured investigation, always mindful of the need to protect reputations and preserve appearances. He avoids gossip and speculation, preferring to rely on concrete evidence and logical deduction. This commitment to privacy and discretion, while admirable in many respects, initially hinders his ability to fully grasp the true nature of the situation, as it prevents him from openly confronting Jekyll and seeking help from others.
The lawyer's meticulous nature and dedication to proper behavior are evident in his interactions with other characters. He is reserved in his communication, avoiding emotional displays and maintaining a professional demeanor even in the face of alarming circumstances. His friendship with Enfield, for instance, is described as a relationship built on shared Sunday walks and a mutual avoidance of emotional intimacy. This reserve is not a sign of coldness but rather a reflection of Utterson’s belief in the importance of self-control and the suppression of potentially disruptive emotions. He embodies the Victorian ideal of the stoic gentleman, who faces adversity with quiet fortitude and unwavering resolve. However, this very restraint, while a virtue in many contexts, also presents a challenge as Utterson confronts the increasingly bizarre and terrifying events surrounding Jekyll and Hyde. His initial reluctance to openly discuss his concerns and seek help from others stems from this deep-seated commitment to privacy and discretion, a commitment that ultimately complicates his efforts to unravel the mystery.
The Evolving Understanding of Civility in the Face of Evil
As the narrative unfolds, Mr. Utterson's perspective on civility and proper behavior undergoes a significant transformation, driven by his growing understanding of the true nature of evil embodied by Mr. Hyde. The initial rules and boundaries that defined his world begin to blur as he confronts a reality that defies the conventional norms of Victorian society. The shocking violence and moral depravity associated with Hyde force Utterson to question the adequacy of a social code based solely on appearances and reputation. He realizes that true civility must extend beyond mere adherence to social etiquette and encompass a deeper commitment to moral integrity and the protection of others from harm. This evolution in Utterson's thinking is not a sudden shift but rather a gradual process, shaped by his experiences and his unwavering loyalty to Dr. Jekyll.
The turning point in Utterson's understanding of civility comes with the brutal murder of Sir Danvers Carew. This horrific crime shatters the illusion of a rational and orderly world, exposing the dark undercurrents that lie beneath the surface of Victorian society. The sheer brutality of the act, coupled with the chilling indifference displayed by Hyde, challenges Utterson's preconceived notions about human nature and the limits of human depravity. He begins to recognize that the conventional rules of civility are inadequate in the face of such profound evil. Maintaining appearances and protecting reputations become secondary concerns as Utterson grapples with the urgent need to uncover the truth and prevent further harm. This realization marks a crucial shift in his approach, as he becomes more proactive and willing to challenge the established norms in his pursuit of justice.
Utterson's growing concern for Dr. Jekyll also plays a pivotal role in his evolving understanding of civility. As he witnesses Jekyll's descent into isolation and despair, Utterson recognizes that true friendship requires more than mere social politeness and discretion. He understands that he must break through the barriers of privacy and reserve to reach his friend and offer genuine help. This willingness to intrude upon Jekyll's privacy, a violation of his initial principles, demonstrates the depth of Utterson's transformation. He is no longer solely concerned with maintaining appearances; he is now driven by a deeper sense of moral obligation and a commitment to the well-being of his friend. This shift in Utterson's perspective highlights the limitations of a purely formalistic view of civility and underscores the importance of empathy, compassion, and genuine human connection.
Utterson's Moral Courage and the Redefinition of Civility
By the end of the novel, Mr. Utterson's definition of civility has undergone a profound transformation. He has moved beyond a superficial adherence to social norms and embraced a more robust and morally grounded understanding of proper behavior. His experiences with Jekyll and Hyde have forced him to confront the dark side of human nature and to recognize the inadequacy of a social code that prioritizes appearances over substance. Utterson's final actions demonstrate his commitment to this redefined sense of civility, as he chooses to reveal the truth, even at the cost of scandal and social disruption. This willingness to expose the dark secret that has consumed his friend underscores his moral courage and his unwavering dedication to justice.
Utterson's ultimate act of civility is his decision to make public the letters and documents that reveal the truth about Jekyll and Hyde. This act is a direct challenge to the Victorian obsession with privacy and reputation, as it exposes the hidden darkness that can lurk beneath the veneer of respectability. Utterson understands that this revelation will cause a scandal and shatter the illusions of many, but he also recognizes that it is the only way to honor the truth and prevent further harm. His decision is not taken lightly; he struggles with the potential consequences, but his commitment to moral integrity ultimately prevails. This act of courage redefines civility as something more than mere politeness or discretion; it becomes a commitment to transparency, honesty, and the unwavering pursuit of justice.
Furthermore, Utterson's redefined civility is evident in his unwavering loyalty to Dr. Jekyll, even after discovering the terrible truth about Hyde. He does not abandon his friend in disgrace but rather seeks to understand the forces that led to his downfall. This empathy and compassion are hallmarks of Utterson's transformed character. He recognizes that Jekyll is both a victim and a perpetrator, a man trapped by his own desires and the limitations of his understanding. Utterson's loyalty extends beyond mere social obligation; it is rooted in a deep sense of human connection and a recognition of the shared vulnerability of all individuals. This understanding of human frailty underscores Utterson's mature and nuanced perspective on civility, one that values compassion and forgiveness alongside justice and accountability.
In conclusion, Mr. Utterson's journey throughout The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde is a compelling exploration of the evolving nature of civility and proper behavior. Initially a staunch proponent of Victorian social norms, Utterson's encounters with the darkness embodied by Mr. Hyde force him to confront the limitations of a purely formalistic view of civility. He learns that true civility requires more than mere adherence to social etiquette; it demands moral courage, empathy, and a commitment to justice. Utterson's transformation is a testament to the enduring power of human connection and the importance of confronting uncomfortable truths in the pursuit of a more just and compassionate society. His redefined sense of civility serves as a powerful reminder that true morality extends beyond appearances and requires a deep commitment to the well-being of others and the unwavering pursuit of truth.
