Examples Of Ambition In Dr Jekyll And Mr Hyde

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In the play ‘Macbeth’, Shakespeare expresses the idea that ambition can have a negative effect on others, resulting in their downfall too. In Macbeth, ambition is presented as a dangerous quality. It causes the downfall of both Macbeth and Lady Macbeth and triggers a series of deaths in the eponymous play. Ambition is therefore the driving force of the play. His wife is the driving force that encourages Macbeth to overcome his strong sense of guilt and take action on the prophecies. They are tempted by the idea that Macbeth will become king - Macbeth is not sure what to do but his wife is ruthless in getting what she wants - she views her husband as a coward and appears ready to do anything. Ambition leads to evil - it makes Macbeth stronger …show more content…

In chapter 10 where Dr Jekyll’s letter is being read out, it is noticeable that Jekyll highlights one of the main themes of the novel, the dual nature of man. It is this concept that caused him to act upon his despicable experiments that led to his downfall. Hyde, the personification of Jekyll’s purely evil characteristics, celebrates the freedom of having an anonymous existence. Although Jekyll successfully draws out his evil side, Jekyll still remains a combination of good and evil. Thus, when transforming between the two, his evil side grows stronger and more powerful, and is able to take over completely at times. It is clearly stated in Jekyll’s letter that he feels no guilt towards any of the crimes Hyde has committed, as "Henry Jekyll stood at times aghast before the acts of Edward Hyde, but the situation was apart from ordinary laws, and insidiously relaxed the grasp of conscience. It was Hyde, after all, and Hyde alone, that was guilty." This explanation seems absolutely ridiculous to the reader, because as we already know Hyde is a part of Jekyll, and a creation of Jekyll. Therefore, it is clear that the responsibility for the man’s actions should be held on

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