Here's a breakdown:
Formal elements:
* Elevated vocabulary: The author, Robert Louis Stevenson, uses words like "ineffable," "abomination," and "inexplicable," which are not common in everyday speech.
* Complex sentence structure: The sentences are often long and intricate, with multiple clauses and layers of meaning.
* Passive voice: Stevenson uses passive voice to create a sense of distance and objectivity in the narration.
* Third-person narration: The story is told from an objective third-person perspective, rather than from a character's point of view.
Informal elements:
* Dialogue: The dialogue between characters is often more casual and conversational, reflecting the time period and social class.
* Descriptive language: Stevenson uses vivid and descriptive language to create a sense of atmosphere and suspense, which can sometimes be considered informal.
Overall, the language of the novel is primarily formal, reflecting the Victorian era's emphasis on decorum and proper speech. However, the inclusion of informal elements helps to ground the story and make it more relatable to the reader. This creates a dynamic and engaging reading experience that contributes to the novel's enduring popularity.