Introduction: The Legend of the Hound of the Baskervilles

The Hound of the Baskervilles is a novel written by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, which was first published in 1902. The novel is a part of the Sherlock Holmes series and is considered one of the best detective novels of all time. The story is set in the moorlands of Dartmoor in Devon, England, and revolves around the Baskerville family curse, which is said to have been caused by a demonic hound that haunts the family.

The legend of the hound dates back to the 17th century when Hugo Baskerville, a cruel and wicked man, was said to have made a pact with the devil. It is believed that the hound was sent by the devil to punish the Baskervilles for their sins. The hound is described as a huge and ferocious creature with glowing eyes and a howling voice, which can be heard from miles away. The legend of the hound has been passed down through generations, and it is believed that whoever hears the howl of the hound is doomed to die.

The Strange Death of Sir Charles Baskerville

The novel begins with the sudden death of Sir Charles Baskerville, who is found dead on the grounds of his estate. The cause of death is believed to be a heart attack, but rumors begin to circulate that he was killed by the hound. The heir to the Baskerville estate, Sir Henry Baskerville, who is living in Canada at the time, is informed of his uncle’s death and is told to return to England to take over the estate.

The Arrival of Dr. James Mortimer

Dr. James Mortimer, a friend of the Baskerville family, arrives at 221B Baker Street to seek the help of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson. He tells them about the legend of the hound and the strange circumstances surrounding Sir Charles’s death. Dr. Mortimer also gives them a manuscript, which was written by Sir Charles and contains details about the curse. Sherlock Holmes agrees to take on the case and sends Dr. Watson to accompany Sir Henry Baskerville to Dartmoor to investigate the matter further.