Sherlock Holmes For Dummies^®

by Steven Doyle; David A. Crowder

• ISBN13: 9780470503423
• ISBN10: 0470503424
• Format: eBook
• Copyright: 2010-02-01
• Publisher: For Dummies

Summary

Get a comprehensive guide to this important literary figure and his author.A classic literary character, Sherlock Holmes has fascinated readers for decades -- from his repartee with Dr. Watson and his unparalleled powers of deduction to the settings, themes, and villains of the stories. Now, this friendly guide offers a clear introduction to this beloved figure and his author, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, presenting new insight into the detective stories and crime scene analysis that have has made Sherlock Holmes famous.Inside you'll find easy-to-understand yet thorough information on the characters, recurring themes, and locations, and social context of the Sherlock Holmes stories, the relationship of these stories to literature, and the forensics and detective work they feature. You'll also learn about the life of the author. Better understand and enjoy this influential literary character with this plain-English guide. Gain insight on these classic Doyle tales -- from the classic Hound of the Baskervilles to the lesser-known short stories to Holmes stories written by other mystery writers. Explore the appearance of Sherlock Holmes on film, TV, and stage. Examine Holmes today -- from the ever-expanding network of fans worldwide to story locations that fans can visit.It's elementary! Sherlock Holmes For Dummies is an indispensable guide for students and fans alike!

Table of Contents

Introduction

Elementary Beginnings and Background

A Snapshot of Sherlock Holmes and the Stories That Made Him Famous

The Great Detective and His Life in Crime

Arthur Conan Doyle: The Doctor Who Created the Detective

Life in the Days of London Fog

What a Bunch of Characters!

Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson

Cops, Landladies, and Others: The Supporting Characters

Villains, Victims, and Damsels in Distress

: Holmes and His Adventures

The "Typical" Sherlock Holmes Story

Delving into "The Hound of the Baskervilles"

The Gaslight Goes Away: The "Modern" Stories

Common Themes and Threads

The Rivals of Sherlock Holmes

Beyond Baker Street

The Sincerest Form of Flattery

Adapting Holmes for Stage and Screen

Communities of Sherlockians

The Part of Tens

Ten Unsolved Mysteries

Ten Sherlockian Places to Visit

Ten Books Every Sherlockian Should Have

Ten Notable Quotes and Passages

Appendix: Active Sherlock Holmes Societies in North America

Index

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