How does this excerpt from chapter 4 of The Strange …

English Questions
Short Answer
Step by Step Solution
English Questions

Read the excerpt from chapter 4 of The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. At this moment, however, the rooms bore every mark of having been recently and hurriedly ransacked; clothes lay about the floor, with their pockets inside out; lock-fast drawers stood open; and on the hearth there lay a pile of grey ashes, as though many papers had been burned. From these embers the inspector disinterred the butt end of a green cheque book, which had resisted the action of the fire; the other half of the stick was found behind the door; and as this clinched his suspicions, the officer declared himself delighted. How does this excerpt develop the plot

Short Answer

The analysis of the room’s condition reveals chaotic signs that raise suspicions about Mr. Hyde, suggesting foul play. The discovery of a burnt green cheque book intensifies these suspicions, indicating potential deliberate destruction of incriminating evidence, which complicates the investigation and deepens the intrigue surrounding Mr. Hyde’s actions and his connection to Dr. Jekyll.

Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Analyze the Room’s Condition

The condition of the room plays a pivotal role in establishing the suspicion surrounding Mr. Hyde. The description reveals signs of a recent disturbance, such as:

  • Ransacked rooms
  • Scattered clothes
  • Open drawers
  • Ashes on the hearth

These clues prompt Mr. Utterson and Inspector Newcomen to view Mr. Hyde as a potential murder suspect, indicating foul play and setting the scene for further investigation.

Step 2: Discovering the Cheque Book

Among the scattered remnants, the burnt portion of a green cheque book emerges as a crucial piece of evidence. This finding suggests that:

  • Documents were intentionally destroyed
  • Incriminating information might have been present
  • Mr. Hyde possibly attempted to cover his tracks

The cheque book’s destruction amplifies suspicions towards Mr. Hyde and hints at his dubious activities, further complicating the investigation.

Step 3: Heightening Suspicion and Intrigue

The inspector’s excitement over the burnt cheque book signifies a major development in the case. This leads to:

  • A deeper investigation into Mr. Hyde’s actions
  • More questions about his connection to Dr. Jekyll
  • An increase in tension around the plot

As the investigation unfolds, the mysterious nature of Mr. Hyde is highlighted, enhancing the overall intrigue and anticipation of revealing the truth behind his criminal activities.

Related Concepts

Room Condition

Refers to the current state of the room, indicating signs of disturbance such as disarray or damage, which suggests potential foul play or illegal activities

Cheque Book

A financial document that can be used to authorize payments, and in this context, is significant as it may contain incriminating information about mr. hyde’s actions and intentions

Suspicion

A feeling or belief that someone may be guilty of wrongdoing, often leading to further investigation; in this case, mr. hyde becomes increasingly suspected as evidence mounts against him.

Table Of Contents
  1. Read the excerpt from chapter 4 of The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. At this moment, however, the rooms bore every mark of having been recently and hurriedly ransacked; clothes lay about the floor, with their pockets inside out; lock-fast drawers stood open; and on the hearth there lay a pile of grey ashes, as though many papers had been burned. From these embers the inspector disinterred the butt end of a green cheque book, which had resisted the action of the fire; the other half of the stick was found behind the door; and as this clinched his suspicions, the officer declared himself delighted. How does this excerpt develop the plot

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