Applying Existentialism in R.L. Stevenson's 'The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde'

The quest to explore the existential undertones in R.L. Stevenson's iconic novel, The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, can yield intriguing insights. While the book is not traditionally classified as existentialist, it can still be analyzed through the lens of existentialist philosophy, revealing a rich tapestry of human existence, guilt, and identity.

Existentialism and R.L. Stevenson’s Novels

Existentialism is an approach to philosophical thought that emphasizes individual freedom, choice, and personal authenticity. Key existentialist thinkers such as Albert Camus, Jean-Paul Sartre, Friedrich Nietzsche, and Martin Heidegger explored themes of the absurdity of life, the lack of inherent meaning, and the importance of individual responsibility. When we consider The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, these elements can be imbued with existentialist interpretation, providing a fresh perspective on the text.

Nihilism and Absurdity

One of the central tenets of existentialism is the notion of nihilism, which posits that life lacks inherent meaning or value. Phrases like "there is no essence of life" and "life is absurd" are commonly associated with existentialist philosophies, especially those of Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus. These themes can resonate with Stevenson's portrayal of Dr. Jekyll, who strives to achieve a morally perfect state but ultimately succumbs to his darker impulses. While Jekyll's actions may seem rational from a utilitarian perspective, they can be interpreted as the result of an existential crisis—a struggle to find meaning in a seemingly meaningless world.

Existential Guilt and Authenticity

By examining the novel through an existentialist lens, we can uncover deeper layers of guilt and authenticity. Jekyll's transformation can be seen as a quest for authenticity—the act of living in accordance with one's true nature. Sartre argued that individuals are condemned to be free, and this freedom often brings with it guilt and anxiety. In Jekyll and Hyde, Jekyll's guilt over his dual nature is palpable, as he constantly fights his inner demons. His attempt to repress his evil side can be seen as an act of inauthenticity, a denial of his true self.

Psychoanalysis and Multiple Personality Disorder

From a psychoanalytic perspective, Jekyll's split personality can be interpreted as a manifestation of multiple personality disorder. The character's disintegration and the struggle between his ethical and unethical sides align with this psychological condition. Dostoevsky's The Double presents a similar narrative, where the protagonist experiences a duality that leads to psychological breakdown. By drawing parallels between these works, we can explore the existential underpinnings of Jekyll’s identity crisis and the psychological turmoil it causes.

The Absurdity of Life

Absurdism, as championed by Albert Camus, posits that life is inherently meaningless and the pursuit of purpose is futile. This concept can be applied to Jekyll's situation, where his search for perfection ends in destruction. Camus argues that individuals must embrace the absurdity of life and choose to live authentically despite the lack of an inherent purpose. In Jekyll and Hyde, Jekyll's guilt and failure to achieve his utopian ideal highlight the absurdity of his quest for perfection. His unwitting role in the destruction of his own life can be seen as a testament to the futility of the search for meaning in an inherently meaningless world.

Conclusion

While The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde is not a traditional existentialist text, its exploration of themes such as guilt, authenticity, and the search for meaning can be enriched by an existentialist lens. By analyzing the novel through the perspectives of existentialist thinkers, we can uncover deeper layers of human experience and provide a fresh interpretation of this classic work. Whether through nihilism, authenticity, or the absurdity of life, the text invites readers to reflect on the complexities of the human condition and the struggle for meaning in an often chaotic world.

References

- Camus, Albert. The Myth of Sisyphus. Translated by Justin O'Brien, Vintage Books, 1991.

- Sartre, Jean-Paul. Existentialism Is a Humanism. Translated by Philip Mairet, Yale University Press, 1993.

- Nietzsche, Friedrich. Beyond Good and Evil. Translated by Walter Kaufmann, Vintage Books, 2007.

- Heidegger, Martin. Being and Time. Translated by Joan Stambaugh, SUNY Press, 1996.