'Jekyll and Hyde': a critique of unchecked scientific ambition

Significant scientific advances during the height of the Industrial Revolution often used unethical practices. Stevenson draws on the 'mad scientist' trope to emphasise how the pursuit of knowledge can lead to a loss of humanity. Jekyll represents the respectable public face whereas Hyde represents the repressed desires he keeps hidden. Lanyon's horror at Hyde's transformation reflects Victorian fears that unchecked ambition led to horrifying outcomes. Jekyll describes his transformation as painful yet enjoyable because it frees him from moral expectations.