Robert Louis Stevenson's Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde have evolved into one of the most acclaimed pieces of literature in modern American society. Various directors through the years have interpreted the book through their own eyes. The movie that I decided to use for this examination is the 1932 version of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, starring Frederic March. There are many various themes, and points that one can focus on when analyzing and contrasting the film and book. There are several elements or subplots that were evident in the movie version of the novel that was nowhere to be found in the book. The most influential character in the movie believe it or not, appeared to be Ivy Pearson; a common whore to some, however, a "metamorphic" tool to this great classic. The capacity of this plot is to serve as a portrayal of the division that exists in Dr.
The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde poster...
Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde
Richard Mansfield was best known for the dual role...Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.
In the movie we are introduced to Ivy Pearson, who coincidentally was aided by Dr. Jekyll one evening. She is an outgoing and free spirited woman. The reason that I characterized her as a whore earlier is because the definition of a whore perfectly defines Dr. Jekyll presence in the story. Whores are free and outgoing who do not judge others and are not being judged much them selves. However, at the same time are being controlled by those who pay or own them. Analyzing the story from a critical point of view puts Dr. Jekyll on the same scale as Ivy Pearson. I believe that Dr. Jekyll was a "whore" of
the society. He was a very rich, well known, and respected man. His material influence in society allowed him to obtain almost everything that he desired. He appears to be...