The Elements of Detective Fiction in The Memoirs of Sherlock Holmes

Abstract

This is a master’s dissertation entitled The Elements of Detective Fiction in The Memoirs of Sherlock Holmes by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle has many aims. The first aim is to give two definitions of detective fiction genre and talk about its history since its establishment in the nineteenth century. In addition, there is going to be a mention of two examples about its pioneers, Edgar Allan Poe and Agatha Christie, and two of its literary works that are Hide and Seek by The British novelist Willkie Collins and the short story of The Oblong Box by Allan Poe. And finally, stating two of its fictional detectives who are Sherlock Holmes and Hercule Porot. The second aim of this study is to introduce The British Victorian novelist Sir Arthur Ignatuis Conan Doyle as well as evoking his personal life. Besides, discussing his book The Memoirs of Sherlock Holmes which was published in 1894, consisting of twelve short stories, is manifest throughout this work. Then, it will move to reveal the characteristics of detective fiction in each short story of the memoirs. The third and last aim of this research is to show the impact and legacy of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.