Mary Allen
Introduction: Mortimer’s dog in Sherlock Holmes
In Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s famous detective story, "The Hound of the Baskervilles," Dr. Mortimer plays an important role as a friend and confidante of the Baskerville family. However, it is his dog that catches the attention of Sherlock Holmes, who deduces the breed based on its physical appearance and behavior. Mortimer’s dog is not only a loyal companion, but also a crucial element in the solving of the mystery at the heart of the story.
The Hound of the Baskervilles
"The Hound of the Baskervilles" is one of the most iconic stories in the Sherlock Holmes canon. It tells the tale of a supernatural hound that terrorizes the Baskerville family in their ancestral home on the moors of Devonshire. Dr. Mortimer, a family friend and physician, seeks the help of Sherlock Holmes and his assistant Dr. Watson to unravel the mystery behind the curse that seems to have befallen the Baskervilles. As they investigate, they encounter Mortimer’s dog, which becomes an important clue in the case.
Mortimer’s description of his dog
Mortimer describes his dog as a "mastiff" with a "broad, black muzzle" and a "heavy, lumbering gait." He notes that the dog is "a most faithful creature" and "very attached to me." However, he also mentions that the dog has a "singularly sharp bark" that can be heard from a great distance. This description provides some clues as to the breed of the dog, but it is Sherlock Holmes who is able to deduce its exact lineage.