Bedside Lamp English Learning Reader III: The Divided Self (Full 3 Boxes of American English)

Author: Tang Shuzhen / Country: Mainland China
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2006-01-01
Features: The story's protagonist, Dr. Jekyll, is a highly knowledgeable and respected social figure. He is extraordinary and kind-hearted, admired everywhere he goes. However, deep down in Dr. Jekyll's heart, beneath his dignified exterior, lies an impatient and evil nature eager for pleasure. To maintain a false sense of solemnity in front of others, he must constantly hide and suppress his ugly desires for enjoyment. Over time, he becomes a person with a dual personality. This suppressed desire eventually leads to horrifying transformation, forcing the doctor to seek release through crime. Later, he invents a chemical substance that, when ingested, causes a physical change, making the person short and repulsive in appearance. As the body changes, the person's moral sense gradually deteriorates, ultimately becoming a demonic figure. Whenever Dr. Jekyll is tempted by the desire for pleasure, he takes this drug, transforming into the short and ugly Mr. Hyde. An evil force then takes control of his body, driving him out to seek pleasure and commit misdeeds. Upon returning home, he takes another dose of the potion and reverts to the respected Dr. Jekyll. In this way, he satisfies his sinful desires while avoiding any responsibility for the consequences. Dr. Jekyll believes this allows him to separate his two natures and free himself from mental torment. However, human nature cannot remain so divided for long, and this self-deceptive method is bound to fail. Indeed, the good times did not last long. The transformations gradually lose control, and Dr. Jekyll discovers he involuntarily becomes Mr. Hyde, while reverting to his original self requires taking large doses of the drug. In the end, when the drug runs out, the doctor realizes he can no longer return to his former self and can only remain as the guilt-ridden Mr. Hyde in the world. Therefore, before the truth comes to light, Dr. Jekyll, consumed by remorse and fear of punishment, takes poison and commits suicide. Later, his friend Mr. Ensign discovers the secret from a self-confession left behind and tells the readers the entire story. This audio tape is a companion to the book "Bedside English Learning Reader - Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde," consisting of 3 tapes.