Dec 27, 2009

The Adventure of the Speckled Band | Themes

Roylott's world is one of decay. In one wing of his home "the windows were broken, and blocked with wooden boards, while the roof was partly caved in, a picture of ruin." The main section of the house is nearly as decayed, with only one wing properly maintained. The estate is covered with brambles and surrounded by a wall with "unrepaired breaches." Like the house, Roylott's life has decayed. He has driven away would-be friends, lost his wife, and murdered a stepdaughter. By the time Holmes begins his investigation, Roylott and his world are in an advanced state of corruption so nearly...