In what year does the Hound of the Baskervilles take place? - briefly
The events of "The Hound of the Baskervilles" unfold in the late 19th century. Specifically, the narrative takes place in 1889.
In what year does the Hound of the Baskervilles take place? - in detail
"The Hound of the Baskervilles," Arthur Conan Doyle's classic Sherlock Holmes mystery, is set in the late Victorian era. The exact year in which the events unfold is not explicitly stated within the text. However, several historical and contextual clues suggest a date around 1889.
The novel begins with Dr. James Mortimer traveling to London to consult Sherlock Holmes regarding the mysterious death of Sir Charles Baskerville. This visit occurs in early July, as indicated by references to the weather and the time of year. Additionally, the story includes several references to contemporary events and technological advancements that were prevalent during the late 1880s.
One notable reference is to the Boer War, which did not begin until 1899. Given this, it is reasonable to infer that the events of "The Hound of the Baskervilles" take place prior to this date. Furthermore, the story mentions the use of a bicycle, an invention that gained significant popularity in Britain around the late 1880s and early 1890s.
Considering these historical markers and the overall atmosphere of the narrative, it is most plausible to conclude that "The Hound of the Baskervilles" takes place in or around the year 1889. This setting adds to the novel's intrigue and immerses readers in the rich cultural and social context of late Victorian England.