1.How does Sherlock Holmes’s methods look forward to the crime
detection methods of today? For this you may want to consider his
use logic, his reliance upon science (particularly forensic science), his
use of crime scene analysis, his use of ballistic tests, etc. Only choose
one or two of these elements to make your case.
2.How does Sherlock Holmes work to establish motives when it comes
to figuring out whodunit? How does he make use of the classic crime
detection triad: motive, means, and opportunity? To what ends?
Use one story to make your case.
3.How might Holmes’s practices as a detective compare with Doyle’s
as a storyteller, especially when it comes to surprising the reader first
and then explaining his practice and methods afterwards? To what
ends?
4.Describe the importance of Watson as writer within the stories
themselves. What is the effect of this feature of the stories? How
does Watson’s role as a writer affect the narrative? To what ends?
5.Describe Moriarty as villain, or arch rival, for Holmes. How is he
developed (or not developed) as a character? To what ends? You
may also want to consider Doyle’s interest in exploring criminals
who hail from “respectable society.†Why does Doyle adopt this
approach? What does it suggest?
Sample Solution