The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde

1. Why do both Utterson and Enfield choose not to ask more questions about Hyde, even though they're clearly disturbed by what they know?

2. What does Enfield mean when he says that asking questions can start stones rolling that 'crush innocent people'? How does this connect to Utterson's philosophy of helping people society has written off?

3. What specific actions does Utterson take to investigate Hyde, and how does he justify each step to himself?

4. Why does Utterson's concern for Jekyll lead him to surveillance rather than direct conversation? What does this reveal about his assumptions?

5. Why does Jekyll become so defensive when Utterson brings up Hyde, and what does his physical reaction (pale face, dark eyes) tell us?

6. Jekyll says he can 'be rid of Mr. Hyde' whenever he chooses, but then begs Utterson to protect Hyde. What does this contradiction reveal about Jekyll's mental state?

7. What specific details make Hyde's attack on Carew so shocking, and how does the community react to this crime?

8. Why do you think Hyde chose Carew as his victim, and what does the extreme violence tell us about what's been building inside Hyde?

9. What does Utterson discover about the letter supposedly written by Hyde, and how does he react to this discovery?

10. Why do you think Utterson chooses to lock away the evidence rather than confront Jekyll directly about the forged letter?

11. Why does Jekyll suddenly become happy and social again after Hyde disappears, and what breaks this peaceful period?

12. What does Lanyon's physical deterioration and refusal to hear Jekyll's name tell us about the power of secrets to destroy relationships?

13. What physical signs show that Jekyll has become a prisoner in his own home?

14. Why do you think Jekyll says he 'dare not' leave his house, even though he clearly wants to join his friends?

15. Why does Poole risk his job and reputation to tell Utterson that something is wrong with Jekyll?