Who Edward Hyde is
Edward Hyde first comes to Mr. Utterson's attention through a disturbing account told by Mr. Enfield. Hyde knocks down a young girl and walks over her without concern. When confronted, he pays compensation with a cheque bearing a respected man's name.
His actions bring cruelty into contact with the respectable world that Utterson knows. As his violence grows more serious, his connection with Jekyll becomes increasingly troubling.
Edward Hyde and the others in the story
Dr. Henry Jekyll protects Hyde but refuses to explain their connection. Jekyll's will gives Hyde an extraordinary claim on his property if the doctor dies or disappears.
Utterson suspects that Hyde holds a damaging secret over his friend. He seeks out Hyde, but meeting the stranger does not ease his concerns. Jekyll's guarded explanations leave Utterson caught between respecting privacy and confronting danger.
Questions
Who is Edward Hyde?
Edward Hyde is an unsettling, violent man whose access to Jekyll's life draws Mr. Utterson's attention.
How is Edward Hyde connected to Jekyll?
Jekyll protects Hyde and makes him a beneficiary of his will. He keeps the nature of their connection private.
Why does Mr. Utterson distrust Hyde?
Utterson distrusts Hyde because of his cruelty and his troubling claim on Jekyll's property. He fears that Hyde may be using a secret against the doctor.
