1. Duality and Transformation:
Stevenson establishes a sense of horror by presenting the duality within Dr. Jekyll's character. The transformation from the respectable Dr. Jekyll to the monstrous Mr. Hyde is both fascinating and terrifying. The idea of a person harboring such an evil alter ego creates a deep sense of unease and horror in the reader.
2. Setting and Atmosphere:
The novel's setting in Victorian London contributes to the horror. Stevenson creates a gloomy,霧濛濛的, and eerie atmosphere that perfectly complements the dark themes of the story. The narrow, labyrinthine streets, the fog, and the dimly lit ambientis enhance the sense of horror and foreboding.
3. Unpredictability and Suspense:
Stevenson masterfully builds suspense and uncertainty throughout the narrative. The reader is kept on edge, wondering when Mr. Hyde will appear and what evil deeds he might commit. This unpredictability heightens the horror, as the characters and the readers are never sure what to expect.
4. Psychological Horror:
The novel explores the psychological aspects of horror, delving into the depths of human nature and the potential for evil within individuals. The duality of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde represents the inner struggle between good and evil, morality and depravity, which taps into deep-seated psychological fears.
5. Violence and Gore:
While the novel is not overly graphic, it does contain several violent and disturbing scenes, such as the murder of Sir Danvers Carew and the transformation scene. These moments bring a visceral element of horror to the story and contribute to the overall sense of dread.
6. Moral Ambiguity:
Stevenson blurs the lines between good and evil, making the characters and their motivations morally ambiguous. This complexity adds to the horror by raising questions about human nature, ethics, and the potential for corruption within individuals.
7. Isolation and Loneliness:
Dr. Jekyll's isolation and his desperate attempts to conceal his secret create a sense of horror and pathos. The character is trapped within his own creation and becomes increasingly isolated from society, amplifying the sense of dread and loneliness.
8. The Unexplained and Supernatural:
Stevenson introduces elements of the unexplained and supernatural to heighten the horror. The transformation process itself is shrouded in mystery and seems to defy scientific explanation. This blurring of the line between the natural and supernatural adds to the unsettling atmosphere of the novel.
Overall, Robert Louis Stevenson creates horror in Dr. Jekyll and Mr Hyde by skillfully blending psychological complexity, atmospheric setting, unpredictable events, and moral ambiguity. The result is a classic work of horror fiction that continues to haunt and fascinate readers to this day.