Page 1: Author Background and Plot Introduction
Robert Louis Stevenson's life and literary journey began in Edinburgh in 1850. Born into a middle-class family, his early life was marked by chronic illness, specifically tuberculosis, which necessitated extensive travel in search of better health. These journeys would later serve as rich sources of inspiration for his literary works.
Highlight: Stevenson's most notable works include "Treasure Island," which established his success as a writer, and "Kidnapped," which demonstrated his skill in blending historical fiction with adventure.
The plot of "The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde" centers around Mr. Utterson, a London lawyer investigating the mysterious connection between his friend Dr. Jekyll and the sinister Mr. Hyde. The story unfolds as a complex tale of scientific ambition gone wrong, culminating in Jekyll's tragic suicide.
Definition: Crime fiction elements in the novel include detective work, mystery-solving, and systematic investigation of clues.
Example: The Victorian London setting is deliberately divided between the respectable West End and the dangerous East End slums, reflecting the story's theme of duality.