The Sign of the Four Overview and Analysis

Questions and Answers

What motivates Sherlock Holmes to use cocaine at the beginning of the novel?

To cope with physical pain

To impress Dr. Watson

To numb his mind when bored (correct)

To enhance his cognitive abilities

How does Dr. John Watson describe Sherlock Holmes?

As a sharp and highly intelligent person (correct)

As a humble and modest man

As a simple and unremarkable detective

As a feared and cautious individual

What aspect of Holmes' personality is showcased through his interactions with others?

His sense of justice and pride in his intellect (correct)

His inability to communicate effectively

His dependence on others for support

His desire for social acceptance

How does Holmes demonstrate his observational skills in the story?

By identifying tobacco types and explaining Watson's watch Signup and view all the answers

What societal view is reflected through the character of Sherlock Holmes?

A sense of superiority among the upper classes Signup and view all the answers

What is Holmes's reaction to the police, particularly Mr. Athelney Jones?

He finds their methods entertaining and predictable Signup and view all the answers

What role does Mary Morstan play in the beginning of the story?

She presents the case of her missing father Signup and view all the answers

What conclusion does Holmes reach regarding Jonathan Small and Tonga?

They stole the Agra treasure from Sholto's house Signup and view all the answers

How does Holmes ultimately regard Jonathan Small at the end of the novel?

He encourages Small to tell the truth to avoid wrongful blame Signup and view all the answers

What type of characters are constables depicted as during the 19th century?

Unskilled working-class men with basic literacy Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Overview of The Sign of the Four

The plot revolves around Mary Morstan who seeks to uncover the mystery of her missing father.
Sherlock Holmes takes on the case, revealing deeper secrets and peculiar occurrences throughout the investigation.

Characterization of Sherlock Holmes

Sherlock Holmes is the central character depicted as a brilliant private detective.
Viewed through the perspective of his friend Dr. John Watson, who serves as the story's narrator.
Watson highlights Holmes' sharp intellect and exceptional observational skills.

Holmes’ Habits and Personality

Opens the novel by injecting cocaine, indicating his pursuit of mental stimulation when bored.
Exhibits arrogance towards those he sees as intellectually inferior.
Showcases his deductive and observational abilities, particularly in tobacco analysis and detailing Watson's watch history.

Holmes' Approach to Cases

Enjoys unraveling complex mysteries and outsmarting adversaries.
Correctly deduces how Jonathan Small and Tonga acquire the Agra treasure from Sholto's residence.
Displays a strong moral compass by urging Small to be truthful regarding Sholto’s murder to prevent wrongful accusations.

Police Context in Victorian England

Early 19th-century police forces in England consisted of unskilled, working-class constables.
Basic qualifications included literacy and a clean criminal record, reflecting societal attitudes of the time.

The Sign of the Four was published in 1890, reflecting Victorian values and class distinctions.
Sherlock Holmes represents the upper class's sense of intellectual superiority over the police, particularly embodied by Mr. Athelney Jones.
Holmes' success in solving mysteries contrasts with the perceived incompetence of law enforcement, providing amusement for contemporary readers.

Holmes' Observation Skills

Noteworthy scene where he meticulously examines seemingly trivial marks on the stair carpet.
Utilizes a lens to inspect details that others overlook, emphasizing his keen eye for evidence and his methodical approach to crime-solving.

Description

Explore the intriguing plot and characterization in 'The Sign of the Four'. Focus on Sherlock Holmes and his unique personality traits, habits, and investigative techniques. Delve into the details as Dr. Watson narrates Holmes' brilliance and the complex mystery of Mary Morstan's search for her father.