Mary Allen
Introduction
The Hound of the Baskervilles is a novel written by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, featuring the famous detective Sherlock Holmes. One of the key aspects of the novel is the setting, which has intrigued readers for years. Many have wondered in what year the events of the novel take place. This article will explore the historical context of the novel, provide clues to determine the year in which it is set, and discuss the significance of this information.
The Hound of the Baskervilles: Background
The Hound of the Baskervilles was first published in 1902 and is one of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s most famous works. The novel is set in Dartmoor, a remote region in England known for its harsh climate, rugged terrain, and mysterious folklore. The story follows the investigation of the death of Sir Charles Baskerville, a wealthy landowner, and the appearance of a terrifying hound that seems to be haunting the Baskerville family.
The novel is known for its gothic atmosphere, intricate plot, and the dynamic between its two main characters, Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson. The Hound of the Baskervilles has been adapted into various media, including film, television, and radio, and has become a classic of detective fiction.
A Brief Summary of The Hound of the Baskervilles
The novel begins with Dr. James Mortimer asking Sherlock Holmes to investigate the death of his friend Sir Charles Baskerville. Sir Charles was found dead on the moors, and Mortimer fears that he was killed by the legendary hound that has haunted the Baskerville family for generations. Sir Charles’s heir, Sir Henry Baskerville, arrives from Canada to take over the family estate, and Holmes sends Dr. Watson to accompany him.
As Watson and Sir Henry investigate the strange events surrounding the Baskerville family, they encounter a suspicious cast of characters, including the sinister Barrymore family, who are the Baskervilles’ servants, and the eccentric naturalist Jack Stapleton. Holmes eventually joins the investigation and reveals the truth behind the hound and the mysterious occurrences on the moors.
Historical Context of The Hound of the Baskervilles
The Hound of the Baskervilles was published during the late Victorian era, a time of great social, economic, and political change in England. The country was experiencing rapid industrialization, urbanization, and the rise of the middle class. The Victorian era was also marked by a fascination with science, technology, and progress.
However, the era was not without its problems. The working class suffered from poor living and working conditions, and there was widespread poverty and social inequality. The era was also marked by a sense of nostalgia for a romanticized past and a fascination with the supernatural and the occult.
Time Period in Which The Hound of the Baskervilles is Set
The Hound of the Baskervilles is set in the late 19th century, during the Victorian era. However, the novel does not specify the exact year in which the events take place. This has led to much speculation and debate among fans of the novel.
Clues to Determine the Year of The Hound of the Baskervilles
Although the novel does not provide an explicit date, there are several clues that can help determine the year in which the events take place. For example, the novel references the recent invention of the bicycle, which became popular in the 1880s. There are also references to the Boer War, which took place from 1899 to 1902. Additionally, the novel mentions the recent construction of the London Underground, which began in the late 19th century.
Sherlock Holmes: The Detective
Sherlock Holmes is one of the most famous fictional detectives in history. He was created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and first appeared in the novel A Study in Scarlet in 1887. Holmes is known for his extraordinary powers of observation, deduction, and reasoning, as well as his eccentric personality and drug use.
Sir Arthur Conan Doyle: The Author
Sir Arthur Conan Doyle was a Scottish author and physician who is best known for creating the character of Sherlock Holmes. He wrote four novels and 56 short stories featuring Holmes, as well as numerous other works of fiction and non-fiction. Conan Doyle was knighted in 1902 for his services to literature.
The Hound of the Baskervilles: Adaptations
The Hound of the Baskervilles has been adapted into various media, including film, television, radio, and stage productions. Some of the most notable adaptations include the 1939 film starring Basil Rathbone as Holmes, the 1988 television series starring Jeremy Brett as Holmes, and the 2002 film starring Richard Roxburgh as Holmes.
The Significance of the Year in The Hound of the Baskervilles
The year in which The Hound of the Baskervilles is set is significant because it provides context for the events of the novel. The late 19th century was a time of great change and upheaval in England, and the novel reflects this in its themes and characters. The year also provides insight into the historical context of the novel and its relevance to contemporary readers.
Conclusion: The Year of The Hound of the Baskervilles
Although the exact year in which The Hound of the Baskervilles is set is not specified, there are several clues that suggest it takes place in the late 19th century, during the Victorian era. The novel reflects the social, economic, and political changes of the era, as well as the fascination with science, technology, and the supernatural. The year in which the novel is set provides valuable context for understanding the themes and characters of the novel, as well as its relevance to contemporary readers.
References and Further Reading
- Conan Doyle, Arthur. The Hound of the Baskervilles. Penguin Classics, 2001.
- Fido, Martin. The World of Sherlock Holmes. David & Charles, 1976.
- Stashower, Daniel. Teller of Tales: The Life of Arthur Conan Doyle. Henry Holt and Company, 1999.