THE HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES - WEEK 8 - CHAPTERS 13 - 15

THE HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES by Arthur Conan Doyle

Okay, it's time to wrap this baby up!!

So the ultimate question is WHY? Why in the world would Stapleton go to these great lengths to try and get his hands on the Baskerville fortune and think he has a chance at securing it? The answer, HE IS A BASKERVILLE! Whose face does Sherlock cover partly up to show Watson the undeniable resemblance? Sir Hugo's. Stapleton is the son of the long-lost black sheep of the family, Rodger.

I loved Holmes' metaphorical reference that "Stapleton will be a butterfly pinned to a card" added to Holmes' "Baker Street collection." What a fun tie in with regards to our murdering entomologist!

Trust is a theme that comes into play in these last few chapters. Would you have trusted Holmes enough to cross the moor by yourself knowing that someone or something was trying to kill you? Sir Henry does, and it almost costs him his life.

I love how Doyle does not leave us hanging on even the smallest details. He tells us the breed of the dog, lays out the secret to the glow the hound displays that gives it its spectral quality, thickens the plot with the fog that continues to build, and wraps up the mystery of the boots.

So do you think Stapleton perished in Grimpen Mire? We are ultimately led to believe that he did, but could it be possible that he escaped? I do believe he did perish, because I want Sir Henry to have the chance of a normal, peaceful life once he recovers from this ordeal. However, the door is left open just a crack. The book comes to a close after going full circle. We are back at Baker Street with Holmes and Watson who are sitting together enjoying a good discussion.

So just for fun what are some of the themes from the book? I'll skip a couple of spaces and throw a few on here. Ponder a moment and see what you come up with.

Greed/Jealousy - the motive of the whole murder

Friendship - the friendship of Watson and Holmes is very evident

Supernatural/Curse- are these things real or as Holmes believes there is a physical explanation even when things seem spiritual

The ball is in your court. What are your thoughts, questions, comments? Fire away! I can't wait to hear from you! Thank you for coming along on this literary journey with me! I hope you enjoyed this great classic!