Activity Overview
As students read, a storyboard can serve as a helpful character reference log. This log (also called a character map) allows students to recall relevant information about important characters. When reading a novel, small attributes and details frequently become important as the plot progresses. With character mapping, students will record this information, helping them follow along and catch the subtleties which make reading more enjoyable!
Use a character map to help track the different characters that are discussed in The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.
Gabriel J. Utterson
Physical Traits
Rugged countenance; rarely smiles; awkward in conversations; lean, long, dusty and dreary
Character Traits
Somehow likeable overall; enjoys wine; likes to help others; concerned about the welfare of his clients; a good influence on others; modest
Quote
"Jekyll, you know me: I am a man to be trusted. Make a clean breast of this in confidence; and I make no doubt I can get you out of it."
Other characters included in this map are: Dr. Henry Jekyll, Mr. Edward Hyde, Poole and Dr. Hastie Lanyon
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a character map for the major characters.
- Identify the major characters in Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a character to represent each of the literary characters.
- Select colors and a pose appropriate to story and character traits.
- Choose a scene or background that makes sense for the character.
- Fill in the text boxes for Physical Traits, Character Traits, and Quote.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 33 Points | Emerging 25 Points | Beginning 17 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Character Picture & Scene | The characters and scenes are both appropriate for the book's characters. | Many of the characters and scenes match the book's characters. | More than half of the characters and scenes do not match the characters in the book. |
| Accuracy of Notes | Most of the information of the notes is correct. | Many of the notes have correct information, but some are incorrect or missing. | Less than half of the information of the notes is correct and relevant. |
| Effort | Work is complete, thorough, and neat. | Most of the sections of the character map were at least attempted and work is presentable. | Character map is unfinished and/or disorganized. |
Activity Overview
As students read, a storyboard can serve as a helpful character reference log. This log (also called a character map) allows students to recall relevant information about important characters. When reading a novel, small attributes and details frequently become important as the plot progresses. With character mapping, students will record this information, helping them follow along and catch the subtleties which make reading more enjoyable!
Use a character map to help track the different characters that are discussed in The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.
Gabriel J. Utterson
Physical Traits
Rugged countenance; rarely smiles; awkward in conversations; lean, long, dusty and dreary
Character Traits
Somehow likeable overall; enjoys wine; likes to help others; concerned about the welfare of his clients; a good influence on others; modest
Quote
"Jekyll, you know me: I am a man to be trusted. Make a clean breast of this in confidence; and I make no doubt I can get you out of it."
Other characters included in this map are: Dr. Henry Jekyll, Mr. Edward Hyde, Poole and Dr. Hastie Lanyon
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a character map for the major characters.
- Identify the major characters in Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a character to represent each of the literary characters.
- Select colors and a pose appropriate to story and character traits.
- Choose a scene or background that makes sense for the character.
- Fill in the text boxes for Physical Traits, Character Traits, and Quote.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 33 Points | Emerging 25 Points | Beginning 17 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Character Picture & Scene | The characters and scenes are both appropriate for the book's characters. | Many of the characters and scenes match the book's characters. | More than half of the characters and scenes do not match the characters in the book. |
| Accuracy of Notes | Most of the information of the notes is correct. | Many of the notes have correct information, but some are incorrect or missing. | Less than half of the information of the notes is correct and relevant. |
| Effort | Work is complete, thorough, and neat. | Most of the sections of the character map were at least attempted and work is presentable. | Character map is unfinished and/or disorganized. |
How Tos about Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde Character Analysis
How to lead a classroom discussion on character motivations in Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde
Encourage students to explore why each character acts the way they do by asking guiding questions. This helps students develop deeper analytical skills and connect more personally with the novel.
Start with open-ended questions about character choices
Ask students, “Why do you think Dr. Jekyll made this decision?” or “What might motivate Mr. Hyde’s actions?” Open-ended questions foster thoughtful discussion and critical thinking.
Use quotes from the novel to support analysis
Have students find and read aloud specific quotes that reveal a character’s motivation or mindset. Referencing text evidence encourages close reading and strengthens arguments.
Compare and contrast motivations between characters
Guide students to examine how Dr. Jekyll’s and Mr. Hyde’s motivations differ, and what drives supporting characters like Utterson or Lanyon. This comparison builds understanding of character development and thematic depth.
Connect motivations to broader themes
Prompt students to link character motivations to themes like duality, morality, or reputation. This deepens comprehension and helps students see the bigger picture of the novel.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde Character Analysis
What is a character map, and how can it help students understand Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde?
A character map is a visual organizer that helps students track details about characters in a story. For Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, using a character map allows students to record physical traits, personality, and key quotes, making it easier to understand each character's role and follow plot developments.
How do you create a character map for The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde?
To create a character map, list the main characters like Dr. Jekyll, Mr. Hyde, Utterson, Poole, and Dr. Lanyon. For each, note their physical traits, character traits, and a memorable quote. Use colors and backgrounds that reflect their personalities to make the map engaging and informative.
Why is character mapping important in literature lessons for high school students?
Character mapping helps high school students keep track of important details, notice character development, and connect subtle plot points. This strategy makes reading more interactive and supports better comprehension and analysis of literature.
What are some key character traits of Gabriel Utterson in Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde?
Gabriel Utterson is described as having a rugged appearance, being rarely cheerful, but is ultimately likable, trustworthy, and caring. He is modest, enjoys helping others, and is deeply concerned for his friends' well-being.
What are the steps for students to follow when completing the Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde character map activity?
Students should: 1) Identify main characters, 2) Choose images and colors for each, 3) Fill in physical and character traits, 4) Add a relevant quote, and 5) Select a scene or background that matches the character. This process helps organize and deepen understanding of the novel.
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