The Critical Reception of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle: Sherlock Holmes and Beyond

This book examines both academic and popular assessments of Conan Doyle's work, focusing on the Holmes stories and their adaptations, while also attending to his other published work. It explores the reception of Doyle's work during his lifetime and since his death, using online periodicals and newspapers to develop a broader and more accurate portrait of his place in literary and cultural history.

Format: Hardback
Length: 318 pages
Publication date: 20 June 2023
Publisher: Boydell & Brewer Ltd

Arthur Conan Doyle, the renowned author behind the iconic character Sherlock Holmes, has left an indelible mark on popular culture. While his creation of the beloved detective has garnered immense fame and popularity, it has also sparked a continuous stream of critical analysis and commentary. However, the vast body of Conan Doyle's published work, which encompasses a diverse range of genres, including mainstream and historical fiction, history, drama, medical, spiritualist, and political tracts, as well as essays on photography, has received relatively less attention.

This book aims to rectify that imbalance by examining both academic and popular assessments of Conan Doyle's work. It places a significant emphasis on the Holmes stories and their numerous adaptations for print, visual, and online media, recognizing their enduring impact on popular culture. At the same time, it also acknowledges Conan Doyle's other contributions to turn-of-the-twentieth-century culture, such as his historical writings and his contributions to drama and medical literature.

The availability of periodicals and newspapers online has opened up new avenues for assessing Conan Doyle's reputation among a broader readership and viewership. By exploring these sources, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of how Conan Doyle's work was received during his lifetime and since his death. This analysis can help to develop a more comprehensive and accurate portrait of Doyle's place in literary and cultural history.

In conclusion, this book offers a comprehensive examination of Conan Doyle's work, exploring both his academic and popular assessments. It sheds light on the enduring popularity of Sherlock Holmes while also recognizing the breadth and depth of Conan Doyle's published work. By leveraging the power of online resources, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of Conan Doyle's legacy and his place in literary and cultural history.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781640140936