The story is a classic example of gothic fiction, exploring themes of dual nature, good vs. evil, and the potential for darkness within every human being. While the characters are fictional, the story's themes resonate with real-world anxieties about human nature and the potential for both good and evil to exist within us.
There are many real-life cases of individuals who exhibit extreme changes in personality or behavior, but these are often attributed to mental health conditions, personality disorders, or traumatic experiences. While these cases might share some similarities with the Jekyll and Hyde story, they are not the same thing.