In this deck, we will analyse the character of Dr Hastie Lanyon. Lanyon is a respectable, conventional doctor and a former close friend of Dr Jekyll. We will explore how Robert Louis Stevenson uses Lanyon to represent the limits of Victorian rational science, and how his dramatic conflict with Jekyll's experiments drives the plot towards its terrifying conclusion.

Dr Lanyon is introduced as a 'hearty, healthy, dapper, red-faced gentleman'. He is a man of reason, who believes in material, observable science. This makes him a perfect foil for Dr Jekyll, whose scientific interests have ventured into the mysterious and the 'transcendental'. Their differing views have caused a serious professional disagreement, ending their long friendship.

The core of the conflict between the two doctors is captured when Lanyon dismisses Jekyll's work. He believes Jekyll has become 'too fanciful' and describes his research as 'unscientific balderdash'. The word 'balderdash' means nonsense. This quotation is vital evidence for your exam, as it clearly establishes Lanyon's rigid, traditional mindset and his complete rejection of Jekyll's unconventional methods.

Despite their falling out, Lanyon plays a crucial role in revealing the truth. After his death, he leaves a letter for Mr Utterson with instructions not to open it until Jekyll has also died or disappeared. Stevenson uses this letter as a key structural device. It allows the narrative to shift from Utterson's confused perspective to Lanyon's firsthand, eyewitness account of the horrifying transformation.