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Sherlock Holmes Research Paper

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Most people would agree that Sherlock Holmes is perhaps the most famous fictional detective, but people also tend to underrate the role of his agent, better known as his sidekick, Dr. John Watson. Sherlock Holmes and Dr. John Watson are fictional characters in Victorian England who solve crimes together in Arthur Conan Doyle’s novels. Holmes is a clever and intuitive detective. Because of this, Dr. Watson’s own intelligence is often overlooked, as he is not quite as gifted as his friend. In the Hound of the Baskervilles, the duo are hired to solve a Sir Charles Baskerville’s death in Dartmoor. Though Holmes is certainly more famous than his partner, Watson is actually more likeable than Holmes; admiration is different than likeability and …show more content…

First of all, the most obvious example is near the end of the novel. When Holmes reveals that he had been hiding out in secret, continuing the investigation, Dr. Watson exclaims, “‘Then you use me, and yet you do not trust me!’” (Doyle, page 91, published 1902) and is hurt by his actions. Though he had a reason, Holmes did not think of his friend’s emotions, and acted quite tactlessly after the confession. Another reason why Sherlock Holmes is not very likeable is his arrogance. This is demonstrated when Holmes remarks about Watson’s observations of the walking stick, “‘I am afraid, my dear Watson, that most of your conclusions are erroneous,’” (Doyle, page 2, published 1902) in which Holmes continues to add onto the doctor’s findings. This action may be seen as demeaning of Watson’s own aptitude. By doing so, he is showing off his investigative proficiency, while also making Watson out to be ‘less than’. This is not to say, however, that Holmes cannot be a good friend to Watson. On multiple occasions, Dr. Watson speaks fondly of their relationship and their excursions. Interactions with other characters in the book prove that Holmes is not as likeable as Watson; his actions may allow him to be perceived as too prideful and careless of other people’s

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