London as a Dualistic Setting:
* The Contrast of Light and Dark: London is depicted as a place where stark contrasts exist. The respectable, well-lit streets of the upper class (where Jekyll resides) stand in stark contrast to the dark, shadowy alleyways and hidden corners where Hyde lurks. This duality reflects the contrasting nature of Jekyll and Hyde themselves.
* Hidden Depravity: The novel portrays London as a city where outward appearances can be deceptive. Behind the facade of Victorian respectability, there exists a dark undercurrent of vice and corruption. This is epitomized by the "dark side of the moon" imagery associated with Hyde's actions, suggesting a hidden, unseen world of sin lurking beneath the surface.
* The "Foggy" Atmosphere: The frequent fog in London contributes to the sense of mystery and ambiguity that surrounds the characters and their actions. It obscures visibility, reflecting the blurred lines between good and evil and making it difficult to discern the true nature of events.
Specific Locations:
* The Street Where Hyde's House is Located: This location is described as a "dingy street," "a by-street," and "a labyrinth of narrow alleys," reinforcing the association between Hyde and darkness, secrecy, and a hidden world.
* The "Scourging" of Hyde: This occurs in "a part of the town where there are few lights," suggesting a place where law and order are less prevalent and the darker elements of society are able to flourish.
* Jekyll's House: It is a "handsome" and "comfortable" abode, reflecting Jekyll's outward appearance of respectability. However, the house is also described as "dark" and "gloomy," foreshadowing the hidden darkness within Jekyll.
Overall, London in *Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde* serves as a symbolic representation of the duality of human nature. It reflects the tension between the forces of good and evil, and the hidden darkness that can lurk beneath the surface of even the most respectable society.