The modern leviathan: An analysis of Frankenstein or, the Modern Prometheus and the strange case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde from Hobbesian perspective

This thesis analyses Mary Shelley's Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus and Robert Louis Stevenson's The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde through the lens of Thomas Hobbes's philosophical ideas. Hobbes's central concepts such as the 'state of nature', 'social contract', 'human self-interest', and the 'Commonwealth' offer a profound framework for examining the ethical and societal dilemmas in the novels. The characters in the novels exemplify the notions of ambition, human nature, duality, and the breakdown of societal order, and make them ideal candidates for Hobbesian analysis. In Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus, Robert Walton's and mainly Victor Frankenstein's relentless pursuit of scientific knowledge and personal glory exemplifies Hobbes's notion of human self-interest. Victor's creation of the monster, followed by his subsequent abandonment and rejection of his creation, reflects the breakdown of societal norms and ethical responsibilities. The creature, innocent and benevolent at first, becomes vengeful and destructive due to Victor's abandonment and society's rejection. This transformation mirrors Hobbes's idea of the state of nature, where the lack of societal structure with the absence of a powerful authority (Leviathan) and moral guidance leads to conflict and chaos. The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde delves into the duality of human nature and the consequences of unrestrained desires. Dr. Jekyll's experiment with separating his good and evil selves to experience pleasure which his society restrains unleashes Mr. Hyde, who embodies pure self-interest and moral depravity. Hyde's actions, driven by unchecked impulses, cause havoc and societal disruption and reflects Hobbes's view of wicked human behaviours in the state of nature. Dr. Jekyll's internal conflict and ultimate downfall illustrate the failure of his internal social contract and the dangers of trying to escape the complexities of human nature. The thesis argues that both novels show the catastrophic consequences of neglecting social responsibilities as mentioned by Hobbes in Leviathan. Besides, the thesis argues that both novels highlight the necessity of Hobbes's Commonwealth as a structured society governed by laws and sovereign authority to prevent societal collapse and maintain peace. Key Words: Thomas Hobbes, Leviathan, Commonwealth, State of Nature, The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, Frankenstein or The Modern Prometheus.