What were the first names of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde in the original story?

Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde are two of the most famous characters in literature, created by Scottish author Robert Louis Stevenson in his 1886 novel "The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde." The story follows the duality of human nature and the consequences of suppressing one's darker impulses.

In the novel, Dr. Jekyll is a respected physician and scientist who becomes obsessed with separating the good and evil parts of his personality. He creates a potion that allows him to transform into a physically different person, the cruel and violent Mr. Hyde, who indulges in his darkest desires without any consequences.

Despite being such iconic figures, the first names of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde are not mentioned in the novel. Stevenson deliberately avoided giving them first names to emphasize their symbolic and allegorical nature.

However, it's worth noting that there are some adaptations and retellings of the story that have given the characters first names. For example, in the 1931 film adaptation, Dr. Jekyll is named Henry and Mr. Hyde is named Edward. In some modern retellings, Dr. Jekyll is given the first name of John or Jack, while Mr. Hyde is sometimes named Edward or William.

It's also worth noting that Stevenson's decision not to give the characters first names adds to the mystery and intrigue surrounding them. By not revealing their identities, he creates a sense of ambiguity and uncertainty that adds to the horror of the story. The characters become archetypes of the duality of human nature, rather than fully fleshed-out individuals with distinct personalities and backgrounds.

In conclusion, the first names of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde are not mentioned in the original novel. Stevenson deliberately avoided giving them first names to emphasize their symbolic and allegorical nature, and to create a sense of mystery and ambiguity that adds to the horror of the story.