The classic story of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, originally penned by Robert Louis Stevenson, explores the duality of human nature. In Once Upon a Time (OUAT), the writers take this iconic tale and give it a unique twist—Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde are physically separated into two distinct bodies. This fascinating development raises the stakes and offers fresh insight into the complexity of identity and the struggle between good and evil. Let’s dive into how this separation unfolds in OUAT and what it means for the characters involved.
In OUAT, Dr. Jekyll’s transformation into Mr. Hyde initially aligns with Stevenson’s classic narrative, where the good doctor creates a serum to separate his darker impulses from his virtuous self. However, the show takes a unique turn when Jekyll’s attempts to control his darker side backfire. Desperate to rid himself of his monstrous counterpart, Jekyll turns to a serum created by Dr. Victor Frankenstein, a fellow scientist with an interest in reanimation and experimentation.
Through this collaboration, Jekyll’s transformation goes beyond a simple change of appearance or personality; it physically splits him into two separate beings. Mr. Hyde emerges as a fully independent entity, sharing Jekyll’s memories but embodying his darker traits. This separation allows Jekyll to maintain his rational, caring persona while Hyde is free to indulge in his violent tendencies.
Once Jekyll and Hyde become distinct individuals, the story takes on new dimensions. In this fractured state, they continue to wrestle with their respective identities, each struggling with the consequences of their separation. Jekyll, believing himself to be free from his darker half, soon realizes that the bond between them is not so easily broken. Hyde, meanwhile, embraces his newfound autonomy and sets out to take advantage of his freedom.
This physical split is a compelling metaphor for the battle we all face between our virtuous and darker impulses. Jekyll and Hyde’s separate bodies allow the show to explore questions of accountability and morality more directly. Jekyll can no longer blame Hyde for his own shortcomings, nor can Hyde excuse his actions by claiming they’re merely an extension of Jekyll’s desires. Instead, they must confront their individual choices and the consequences that follow.
The storyline deepens as Hyde attempts to seize control of Storybrooke, bringing chaos to the lives of its residents. While Jekyll allies himself with the heroes, hoping to atone for his past mistakes, Hyde’s ambition drives him to seek power. He collaborates with the Evil Queen, Regina’s darker half, further demonstrating how characters’ darker sides can forge alliances that threaten everyone around them.
Through Hyde’s pursuit of power, OUAT emphasizes that while we may wish to compartmentalize or separate our darker impulses, they inevitably impact those around us. Hyde’s menace affects not only Jekyll but also the entire town of Storybrooke, showing how unchecked darkness can wreak havoc on a larger scale.
As the story unfolds, the question of redemption looms large for both Jekyll and Hyde. The twist in OUAT reveals that Jekyll, whom the audience initially sympathizes with, also harbors a dark side that he refuses to acknowledge. Hyde, despite his menacing demeanor, is more than a simple villain; he is the product of Jekyll’s attempt to deny his own flaws.
Ultimately, the separation of Jekyll and Hyde serves as a poignant reminder that everyone possesses both light and darkness within them. While Jekyll’s attempt to rid himself of Hyde represents the desire to eliminate unwanted traits, his failure to do so reveals the futility of denying one’s true nature. The show suggests that self-acceptance and the integration of all aspects of oneself are necessary steps toward wholeness.
OUAT’s creative adaptation of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde’s story adds a layer of complexity to the classic tale, reminding viewers that the battle between good and evil isn’t as clear-cut as it seems. By giving Jekyll and Hyde their own bodies, the show underscores the idea that both sides are equally real and equally accountable.
In Once Upon a Time, the separation of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde into two bodies may be a magical twist, but it offers a very human lesson: confronting and accepting the darker aspects of ourselves is essential to personal growth and healing. Rather than trying to rid ourselves of our flaws, embracing them might be the key to finding inner peace. This storyline, much like the rest of OUAT, shows that everyone has the potential for both good and evil. The challenge lies in choosing which side to embrace and learning to live with both.
