The Red-Headed League Group

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scott-locklear
Teacher
Doctorate

What is the setting of "The Red-Headed League"?

[question originally posted by bartola4169]

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Posted by scott-locklear on Thursday September 11, 2008 at 12:57 PM and tagged with setting, the red-headed league.

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  1. ms-mcgregor Teacher
    High School - 12th Grade

    eNotes Editor

    The literal setting of the story appears to be London during the reign of Queen Victoria. The story begins in Sherlock Holmes' house, which was supposedly located on Baker Street in London. There are many references to London in the story, especially Saxe-Coburg Square. Saxe-Colburg was the family name of Prince Albert, husband of Queen Victoria. In addition, St. Paul's church, which is located in London, is mentioned as well as St. James Hall. Finally, Holmes tells Merryweather, "We are at present, Doctor—as no doubt you have divined—in the cellar of the City branch of one of the principal London banks." However, as critics have pointed out, the tunnel under the square is representative of the recesses of Holmes' mind. Thus, Holmes mind and its thought processes could be considered as a symbolic setting for the story, especially since John Clay seems to be a mental match for Holmes and the two men, who have evidentally clashed before, must match wits again in this story.

    Sources:
    http://www.enotes.com/red-headed-league

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    Posted by ms-mcgregor on Thursday September 11, 2008 at 9:43 PM