'Jekyll and Hyde': repression and fragmented identities

The Indutrial Revolution saw an increase in psychological conditions (anxiety, depression and feelings of alienation). Strict moral codes of behaviour often led Victorians to live double lives, leading to a fragmentation of identities. Many believed psychological conditions signified weakness or moral failure. Dr. Jekyll’s battle between good and evil reflects the Victorian ideas of repressed desires and loss of self-control. After his initial transformation, Jekyll begins to lose control over Hyde and grows weaker while Hyde gains strength.