A major theme in Robert Louis Stevenson's Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde is the duality of human nature. Stevenson poses the question to the reader regarding the nature of humankind to shadow two personalities, one wicked and one virtuous. Does each of us have two sides, an evil side and a good side that are in constant battle for dominance? Mary Shelley posed this question through Victor and his creature who both were initially good but allowed their evil natures to eventually dominate their personalities. The questions the authors ask the readers are whether the dual natures of humanity are a product of society, a product of primitive instinct, or simply man's fundamental nature.
Construct an argumentative essay to defend your viewpoint for or against the dual nature of humankind. Incorporate specific examples from the novel. Use quotations and excerpts from the novel to support and clarify and demonstrate your opinions.