The Hound of the Baskervilles

1. The Hound of the Baskervilles Character Revision Source: http://www.tes.co.uk/ResourceDetail.aspx?storyCode=6062023

2. You will need to revise the key characters carefully to answer Part B of the 4 part question successfully.

3. Very observant – Can spot the clues no-one else can see. e.g. Dr Mortimer’s Cane and the portrait of Sir Hugo Can be arrogant or egotistical. E.g. his annoyance at being called 2nd best by Mortimer and his mocking of Watson’s deductions His methods of deduction are very logical and scientific. E.g. he is not taken in by the supernatural tale of the hound. He looks for rational alternatives. This energy helps to add pace to the final chapters. It is Holmes’ arrival that sets the events and action in motion. He is rather secretive about his plans. E.g. he follows Watson down to Baskerville Hall and will not reveal his final plan (ch. 14) Sherlock Holmes Does make occasional mistakes which may make him appear more “human”. E.g. allowing the bearded man to escape in London. At times he can appear to mock Watson and his abilities e.g. the cane. however, does assure him his help (reports sent to London) is valued. Shows a great deal of energy and enthusiasm for what he does. This is especially obvious in the later chapters.

4. Story is seen through his eyes, therefore, the reader feels more sympathetic towards him. Does attempt to use Holmes’ methods to unravel the mysteries (e.g. the cane) However, his abilities are nearly always undermined by Holmes and his superior talent. Holmes obviously trusts Watson – he sends him to Baskerville Hall and also reads his reports closely. Acts as a foil to Holmes. where Watson struggles to understand clues Holmes immediately sees the relevance. Dr. Watson Watson’s obvious admiration for Holmes again helps to make the detective appear even greater. This helps to emphasise Holmes’ intelligence. Although Watson is unable to solve the mystery without Holmes he still uncovers some important facts.

5. Shows a fascination with and a great deal of knowledge about the Grimpen Mire at the first meeting – again this is suspicious in hindsight. Suspicions are raised further when he reacts angrily to Sir Henry meeting with Miss Stapleton. Is very inquisitive from the moment he is introduced (questions Watson about Holmes). could be suspicious. Stapleton His subsequent apology could show his cunning as he is able to deceive Watson and Sir Henry about the real reason for his anger. When Holmes explains How Stapleton planned his crime at the end it shows his intelligence and cunning. Again when he finds out Seldon is dead instead of Sir Henry he remains calm under pressure.

6. Appears brave from the start because he is unafraid of going to Baskerville Hall. Sir Henry The relationship with Miss Stapleton helps to add further drama and intrigue. Appears a little short- tempered. He argues with the staff at the hotel and Stapleton.

7. When answering the question on character make sure that you use quotations from the extract to support the points you make. Look for: • What the character says. • How they are physically described. • What other characters say about them. • How their behaviour is described. • Their reactions to other characters or events.