What breed was Baskerville's dog in the novel by Conan Doyle? - briefly
The breed of the dog in Arthur Conan Doyle's "The Hound of the Baskervilles" is a large, savage hound, often described as a hellhound. This fictional creature is not a specific recognized breed but is portrayed as a monstrous and terrifying beast.
What breed was Baskerville's dog in the novel by Conan Doyle? - in detail
In Arthur Conan Doyle's novel "The Hound of the Baskervilles," the mysterious and terrifying hound that haunts the moors of Dartmoor is a central element of the story. The breed of this spectral dog is a subject of much speculation and interpretation, as Doyle's description is both vivid and somewhat ambiguous.
The hound is described as a massive, diabolical creature with glowing eyes and a muzzle that seems to emit an eerie, otherworldly light. Its size is emphasized, with the hound being described as larger than any ordinary dog. This description has led many readers and scholars to believe that the hound is not a specific breed but rather a supernatural entity, perhaps a manifestation of the ancient curse that plagues the Baskerville family.
However, some interpretations suggest that the hound could be a large, real-world breed, possibly a mastiff or a Great Dane, which have the size and strength to match the descriptions in the novel. The use of such a breed would add a layer of realism to the story, making the supernatural elements more believable. Mastiffs, in particular, have a long history in British folklore and literature, often being depicted as guardians or protectors, which could align with the hound's role in the story.
The hound's appearance is also described with features that could be attributed to various breeds. For instance, the glowing eyes could be a literary device to enhance the hound's eerie presence, rather than a specific breed characteristic. The eerie light could be interpreted as a reflection of the moon or a trick of the light, rather than a physical trait of the dog.
In summary, the breed of the hound in "The Hound of the Baskervilles" is left intentionally ambiguous by Conan Doyle. This ambiguity serves to heighten the mystery and supernatural elements of the story. Whether the hound is a supernatural entity or a large, real-world breed, its purpose in the novel is to instill fear and drive the plot forward. The lack of a specific breed identification allows readers to fill in the gaps with their own imaginations, making the hound a timeless and enduring symbol of terror in literature.