Thematic Essay: Good Always Wins Over EvilSherlock Holmes is a name widely known throughout the world. Known for his uncanny ability to solve difficult cases using his keen observation skills and logical reasoning, Sherlock Holmes is an inspiration to many people. This invincible detective, alas, is just a fictional character created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Even so, Sherlock Holmes, with his talent for solving any crime, gives people the impression that justice always prevails and that criminals will always be caught and punished. In Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's "The Adventures of the Speckled Band," the sensory imagery, dialogue, and resolution of the story help develop the idea that good always wins over evil. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay The sensory imagery in “The Adventure of the Spotted Band” supports the fact that Sherlock is very thorough in his observations. During Helen Stoner's visit, a quick glance at Sherlock is enough to perceive even the smallest detail. “Holmes pushed back the black lace frill that framed the hand resting on our visitor's knee. Five small livid spots, the marks of four fingers and a thumb, were imprinted on the white wrist” (Doyle 147). With that single look, Sherlock notices the bruises on the woman's wrist and comes to the accurate conclusion that she was cruelly abused by her stepfather, Dr. Grimesby Roylott. The bruises implicate Dr. Roylott as the possible perpetrator of the murder of Helen's twin sister Julia. Furthermore, Sherlock's investigation of Helen's house shows how he pays close attention to every detail. “He threw himself face down with the magnifying glass in his hand and crawled rapidly back and forth, minutely examining the cracks between the boards. Then he did the same with the wood with which the room was covered. Finally he approached the bed and stood for a while staring at it and running his gaze up and down the wall” (151). Through this quote, Sherlock's meticulousness is clearly shown. This trait is also represented when "he [Sherlock] crouched before the wooden chair and examined its seat with the utmost attention" (152). Although inspecting floorboards, walls, and chairs is rather unorthodox, Sherlock's meticulousness is essentially what helps him solve the case. The dialogue within this tale describes Sherlock's confidence in his abilities. “'When a doctor makes a mistake he is the first of the criminals. He has courage and he has knowledge. Palmer and Pritchard were among the foremost exponents of their profession. This man [Dr. Roylott] strikes still deeper, but I think, Watson, we shall be able to strike still deeper'” (154). From this quote we understand that although Doctor Roylott is one of the most cunning criminals there is, Sherlock is confident in his ability to outwit the doctor. This is shown most clearly when Sherlock says, "'He must be on his guard, for he may find that there is someone more cunning than himself on his trail'" (150). Additionally, Sherlock's confidence is demonstrated by his calm demeanor. “'I would be very grateful if you would put the gun in your pocket. . . I think that and a toothbrush are all we need'” (149). The way Sherlock casually tells Watson to bring a toothbrush makes it seem like the situation isn't dangerous at all and that Sherlock has everything under control. Sherlock's confidence gives the impression that he can face any obstacle and defeat any criminal. The resolution in "The Adventure of the Gang.
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