Is The Hound of the Baskervilles the greatest mystery novel ever penned? A group passionate about the mystery genre could debate this question endlessly, each member presenting arguments for why their preferred novel deserves the title. However, this question is far from trivial. For nearly a century, readers of all ages have been captivated by the intensely suspenseful story of a demonic hound and the human efforts to unravel its deadly secret. This novel ranks among Conan Doyle's most inspired creations, skillfully balancing traditional romance with stark reality. A significant part of its greatness lies in its exploration of the human spirit; the characters face immense stress, with some breaking under the pressure, while others, like Holmes, confront an evil that almost defies logic. Holmes' ultimate triumph in making this evil succumb to his scientific reasoning is a notable victory for him.

However, the novel's balance is noteworthy. Holmes is not entirely triumphant. His client survives the ordeal, but nearly loses his sanity in the process. Indeed, despite being the beacon of hope for his community's prosperity and peace, Sir Henry must leave to regain his composure. The relentless malevolence of Stapleton is especially striking in a world where images are ambiguous, mysteries have multiple solutions, and humans are uncertain of the truth and themselves. All these elements make The Hound of the Baskervilles a thrilling read and an excellent topic for discussion.

1. One of the most intriguing aspects of The Hound of the Baskervilles is Sherlock Holmes' absence for much of the narrative. Is he truly the main character? Could one argue that Watson is actually the protagonist? Does he not play a more active role in the story than Holmes?

2. A common reaction to The Hound of the Baskervilles is amazement at its tension and its ability to keep readers in suspense. What about this novel leaves many readers breathless by the end, as if they themselves had been fleeing from the dreaded hound? What makes this relatively short novel so gripping? Is it Watson's straightforward writing style? Is it the well-balanced blend of supernatural and human-made danger? Is it the dark and mysterious setting that threatens death to unwary wanderers?

3. Observe how Conan Doyle constructs his imagery in the novel. Each image contributes to a terrifying atmosphere where horrors could lurk anywhere. In the city, a mysterious cane leads to a doctor with a disturbing story and a threatening letter. In the countryside, a pony's agonizing death in the mire suggests that any kind of evil is possible. What other images does Conan Doyle employ to draw his audience into his world of romance and mystery? How does Holmes himself handle these images?

4. Comparing the novel to its film adaptations can be an enjoyable exercise. A dedicated Holmes enthusiast has likely watched most of these adaptations and would be eager to revisit them. Many are available on videotape. How have filmmakers attempted to weave the novel's themes into their screen adaptations? Pay special attention to what they choose to highlight; this reveals what they believe is the novel's main appeal to audiences. Are their choices accurate? What have they overlooked? Which film adaptations succeed and which fail? What does this indicate about the strengths and weaknesses of the novel itself? What does this suggest about the different ways audiences interpret the events of the novel?

5. Observe how the butterfly is used symbolically in The Hound of the Baskervilles. It serves as more than just a collectible item. It demonstrates that the main villain possesses a scientific mind, similar to Holmes, making him a formidable adversary. It also becomes the key to Holmes solving the mystery; through it, he uncovers Stapleton's secrets. Does Conan Doyle use other images in a similar manner? Consider the novel's central image of the massive, ravenous hound. How do you interpret its supernatural reputation, terrifying appearance, and ordinary reality?

6. Picture the situation Conan Doyle found himself in when writing The Hound of the Baskervilles. He had previously attempted to kill off Sherlock Holmes for good. He was establishing his reputation as a writer of historical novels and was involved in significant public affairs, such as the South African war. An American publisher eventually offered him more money than he could reasonably decline as a family provider. What choices did he face in crafting a story that would meet his expectations, those of his publisher, and those of his audience? Note how he fulfills one of his own desires by setting the novel in a period before Holmes's supposed death, thus technically maintaining the notion that Holmes is dead and will have no further adventures. What would his publisher and audience desire? How does Conan Doyle attempt to satisfy them?

7. In the universe of Sherlock Holmes stories, good and evil manifest in many forms and are often ambiguous. Holmes's task frequently involves not only distinguishing good from evil but also differentiating various degrees of evil from one another. What are the different forms of evil in The Hound of the Baskervilles? Can you categorize them? Why would Conan Doyle incorporate multiple kinds and degrees of evil into the novel?

8. Holmes has his weaknesses, and some are exposed in the novel. He even makes a glaring mistake that allows Watson to find him. What do these weaknesses reveal about his character? Is he ever truly happy?

9. Watson is often a misunderstood character. What do we learn about him in The Hound of the Baskervilles? Is he foolish?

10. Does The Hound of the Baskervilles convey moral lessons? What societal or ethical principles does it embody?

By Kirk H. Beetz