Teaching 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. Think about your workplace, family, or community. Where do you see people practicing 'strategic ignorance' - choosing not to dig deeper into problems because they understand the consequences?

4. How do you decide when to investigate a problem versus when to offer support without asking questions? What signals help you recognize when curiosity might cause more harm than help?

5. Both men show different forms of wisdom about human complexity - Utterson through non-judgment, Enfield through protective discretion. What does this suggest about the different ways people can show care and moral strength?

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

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

8. Where have you seen someone use 'protecting' or 'helping' as justification for crossing boundaries in relationships, workplaces, or families?

9. If you were genuinely worried about a friend's choices, what would be a respectful way to address your concerns without becoming invasive?

10. What does Utterson's escalating investigation teach us about how good intentions can lead to harmful behavior?

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

12. 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?

13. Where have you seen this pattern of someone defending a person or situation that's clearly harmful to them? What made it hard for them to see the truth?

14. If you were in Utterson's position—wanting to help a friend who keeps defending someone toxic—what approach would you take?

15. Why do people often become the strongest defenders of those who hurt them? What psychological need does this defense serve?

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

17. 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?

18. Where do you see this pattern of suppressed anger exploding on 'safer' targets in workplaces, families, or online interactions today?

19. If you notice pressure building up inside yourself—frustration at work, anger at home—what healthy outlets could you create before you 'explode' on the wrong person?

20. What does Hyde's complete disappearance after the murder reveal about how we hide our worst impulses, and when might this hiding become dangerous?