A Study in Scarlet

In Arthur Conan Doyle's A Study in Scarlet, the famous literary characters Sherlock Holmes and John Watson are introduced. The novel follows their investigation into a murder case, unraveling a web of love, religion, and revenge. This gripping tale laid the foundation for the beloved Holmes and Watson stories, becoming a cultural phenomenon that has inspired numerous adaptations, imitations, and merchandise.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 09 March 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press

In the captivating world of Arthur Conan Doyle's A Study in Scarlet, a vibrant and enduring cultural phenomenon takes shape. Within this novel, we are introduced to two of the most iconic figures in modern literary history: the brilliant consulting detective Sherlock Holmes and his loyal companion, John Watson, an army doctor on sick leave. Their paths intertwine for the first time, embarking on a thrilling adventure that will forever shape their destinies.

Through the eyes of Watson, we gain a glimpse into the enigmatic character who becomes Holmes's new roommate at 221B Baker Street. Before they encounter their first case, an American visitor to London is found murdered in an empty house off the Brixton Road, leaving only the mysterious word "Rache" scrawled in blood-red letters on the wall as the sole clue. As Holmes delves into his unique forensic methods, a intricate web of love, religion, and revenge unravels, taking us on a journey that spans the streets of London to the rugged Utah Territory and back again.

In Nicholas Daly's Introduction, he aptly describes the profound impact of this gripping tale, which gave birth to the beloved Holmes and Watson stories that would make Conan Doyle the highest-paid author of his time. His creations have transcended borders, becoming household words that have inspired countless adaptations, imitations, and a dedicated Sherlock Holmes museum. Moreover, the influence of Holmes and Watson extends to the realm of popular culture, with Sherlock Holmes-themed pubs, a wide array of Holmesian merchandise, and even cushions and jigsaw puzzles bearing their iconic image.

However, it is important to note that we have the privilege of meeting Holmes and Watson before they achieved fame. By delving into their early adventures, we gain a deeper understanding of the origins and influences that shaped their extraordinary impact on our popular culture. The late-Victorian world in which they emerged played a pivotal role in shaping their characterizations, their methods, and their enduring legacy.

In conclusion, A Study in Scarlet not only introduces us to the iconic duo of Sherlock Holmes and John Watson but also serves as a window into the rich tapestry of late-Victorian society. Through the pages of this novel, we witness the birth of a cultural phenomenon that has left an indelible mark on literature, popular culture, and our collective imagination. The legacy of Holmes and Watson continues to inspire and captivate generations, reminding us of the power of storytelling and the enduring fascination with the extraordinary.

Weight: 148g
Dimension: 196 x 130 x 315 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198856047
Edition number: 2 Revised edition