Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson

Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

by Robert Louis Stevenson

Enriched Classics offer readers accessible editions of great works of literature enhanced by helpful notes and commentary. Each book includes educational tools alongside the text, enabling students and readers alike to gain a deeper and more developed understanding of the writer and their work.

Stark, skillfully woven, this fascinating novel explores the curious turnings of human character through the strange case of Dr. Jekyll, a kindly scientist who by night takes on his stunted evil self, Mr. Hyde. Anticipating modern psychology, Jekyll and Hyde is a brilliantly original study of man’s dual nature—as well as an immortal tale of suspense and terror. Published in 1886, Jekyll and Hyde was an instant success and brought Stevenson his first taste of fame. Though sometimes dismissed as a mere mystery story, the book has evoked much literary admirations. Vladimir Nabokov likened it to Madame Bovary and Dead Souls as “a fable that lies nearer to poetry than to ordinary prose fiction.”

Enriched Classics enhance your engagement by introducing and explaining the historical and cultural significance of the work, the author’s personal history, and what impact this book had on subsequent scholarship. Each book includes discussion questions that help clarify and reinforce major themes and reading recommendations for further research.

Read with confidence.

Reviewed by boghunden on

3 of 5 stars

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I think we all know the story of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.
It was a very quick read, but unfortunately the story never really captivated me the way I expected it to. I think that's due to the plot twist (meaning that I knew the story already and therefor I didn't get too excited about the twist with the Jekyll and Hyde-thing. I didn't know about the details though, and I really liked those parts. One of the things I liked in particular, were the letters.
The writing style was pretty good, it didn't feel like an old novel at any point, which I really enjoyed. I also found it to be funny at some parts, like "play Hyde and seek", and the way it described the "evil woman face".

I listened to the audiobook of this and although I enjoyed the narrator, it wasn't really loud enough for me to be able to hear it all clearly when I was out walking. :/

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  • Started reading
  • 31 May, 2016: Finished reading
  • 31 May, 2016: Reviewed