If Hyde was caught up in a situation where he was entitled to trial, I would be on the prosecution side, since he has committed a murder, which obviously by law is illegal. I would tell the judge that it is simple enough to acknowledge that an intentional murder is unacceptable, and the murderer should be punished. A statement may arise from the defence side that Hyde is facing bodily and mental problems. I would use Utterson as a witness to oppose this statement. Utterson would describe what was on the letter that was given to him by Lanyon; Jekyll willingly drinking a potion to become Hyde. Jekyll and Hyde are the same, only with different appearances.
Later on in the case, stories may be explained about why he committed that case, such as childhood conflicts and abuse. Multiple Personality Disorder may also be brought up as a possible disease state for Jekyll. I would oppose this, as Multiple Personality Disorder is when an individual unknowingly changes personalities. Jekyll however knows how to get access to Hyde, so he cannot be diagnosed with this disorder. Jekyll also intended to drink the potion himself, to investigate the good and evil between humans. It was his fault that his curiosity led to this. Why would he drink the potion? Wouldn't evil be inflicted upon him? I would conclude that he wanted an evil side of himself, and that all of his actions were intentional. This theory would be very controversial, and scientists and doctors may have to be brought into this case to approve my statements, but if my theory was wrong, he would probably be put in a rehabilitation center. If I can prove that he is guilty, which is my goal, then Hyde will receive severe punishment for his crimes.
Remember that in your writing/speech you are to take on the point of view of the prosecutor speaking directly to the jury of Victorian citizens in the trial of Hyde. I think that in this blog you have certainly demonstrated your forethought in terms of the counterargument. This is smart. How will you lay out the reasons for prosecuting him? Certainly consider detailing the evidence, witnesses, etc. Also think about what mattered most to Victorian society. How would you use what you know about this society to your benefit. Paint a picture of what freeing a man like Hyde would mean for their future in terms of morals and values. Be sure to use language that is convincing and formal, as it is a courtroom. Try watching some court TV or view some clips of courtroom dramas on youtube to pick up some of the common legal language and phrases. Best of luck. Great start.
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