The "Double" and Wilkie Collins

Paper Summary:

The "double" was a symbolic device commonly used in the nineteenth century. Famous examples include Victor Frankenstein and his monster and Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. This paper shows that Wilkie Collins used the "double" several times in his fiction. It shows, however, that in "The Dead Hand," Collins used the symbolism of the double in a different way than other nineteenth century authors.

From the Paper:

"Another way Collins' use of the double in this story contradicts typical nineteenth century use is that Holliday destroys his brother's life unintentionally. This approach is very different from other nineteenth century authors. For example, in Frankenstein, the monster deliberately kills Victor's wife in retaliation for Victor's refusal to create a mate for the monster. In "The Dead Hand." while the narrator and reader soon realize the bitter young man Holliday revived is his brother, Holliday himself does not realize it, nor does he realize the woman he loves was engaged to his brother."

More papers on The "Double" and Wilkie Collins:

• Book Review # 1506 : "Dreams in "The Double" and "Crime and Punishment"
• Book Review # 128420 : "A Review of Wilkie Collins' "The Moonstone"
• Book Review # 2172 : "Different types of Religion in Wilkie Collins's "The Moonstone"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: