Part 4: The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde: Theme — Quiz
Question 9 • English IV
Read the excerpt from The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. But the words were hardly uttered, before the smile was struck out of his face and succeeded by an expression of such abject terror and despair, as froze the very blood of the two gentlemen below. They saw it but for a glimpse for the window was instantly thrust down; but that glimpse had been sufficient, and they turned and left the court without a word. In silence, too, they traversed the by-street; and it was not until they had come into a neighbouring thoroughfare, where even upon a Sunday there were still some stirrings of life, that Mr. Utterson at last turned and looked at his companion. They were both pale; and there was an answering horror in their eyes. "God forgive us, God forgive us,” said Mr. Utterson. How does this passage develop the theme "Evil can never truly hide itself”?
Answer
A
Dr. Jekyll tells the men to go away before slamming the window closed.
B
Dr. Jekyll closes the window and makes the men nervous by following them home.
C
Utterson and Enfield are horrified when they see Jekyll’s transformation.
D
Utterson and Enfield are ashamed that they did not stay to help Dr. Jekyll.
Explanation
The men catch a glimpse of Dr. Jekyll’s face before he shuts the window, and its expression fills them with “abject terror and despair.” Their pale faces and shared horror show that something evil or frightening has become visible despite Jekyll’s attempt to shut it away. This develops the theme that evil cannot truly hide itself. Choice C, that Utterson and Enfield are horrified when they see Jekyll’s transformation, best matches the passage.
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