What is the Hound of Baskerville? - briefly
The Hound of Baskerville is a massive, spectral hound from Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes story "The Hound of Baskervilles." It is said to haunt the moors around Baskerville Hall and is believed to be responsible for the death of Sir Charles Baskerville.
What is the Hound of Baskerville? - in detail
The Hound of Baskervilles, often referred to simply as the "Hound," is a central and enigmatic element in Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's classic detective novel, "The Hound of Baskervilles." This story, which is part of the larger Sherlock Holmes series, revolves around an ancient legend that haunts the Baskerville family. The Hound is described as a monstrous creature with blazing eyes and a ghostly howl, said to roam the desolate moors surrounding the Baskerville estate in Dartmoor, England.
The legend states that centuries ago, Hugo Baskerville, an ancestor of the current Sir Henry Baskerville, was cursed by a vengeful woman whose brother he had killed in a fit of jealous rage. The curse decreed that a monstrous hound would haunt the Baskervilles forevermore, ensuring that no future generation of the family would live peacefully. This chilling tale has cast a long shadow over the Baskerville lineage, instilling fear and superstition among its members.
When Sir Charles Baskerville is found dead on the moors under mysterious circumstances, the local residents whisper about the curse and the Hound's involvement. The sudden appearance of Sir Henry Baskerville, who inherits the estate after his uncle’s death, raises concerns that he too may fall victim to the legend. Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson are summoned to investigate the case and unravel the mystery behind Sir Charles's demise and the legend of the Hound.
Throughout their investigation, Holmes and Watson encounter various clues that point towards a human culprit rather than a supernatural hound. They explore the desolate landscape of Dartmoor, interact with eccentric characters associated with the Baskerville family, and gradually uncover a web of deceit and manipulation designed to perpetuate the legend. The Hound, they discover, is not a spectral beast but a tangible manifestation of human malice and greed.
In conclusion, while the "Hound of Baskervilles" serves as a chilling symbol within the narrative, it ultimately represents the power of superstition and the darker aspects of human nature. The legend's enduring influence over generations highlights how fear can be exploited to control and manipulate others.