Who is the Hound of Baskervilles? - briefly
The Hound of the Baskervilles is a large, black, spectral dog that appears in Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's novel "The Hound of the Baskervilles." It is a central element of the story, known for its eerie presence and connection to the legend of the Baskerville family.
Who is the Hound of Baskervilles? - in detail
The Hound of the Baskervilles, often simply referred to as "the Hound," is a fictional creature that plays a central role in Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's 1902 novel of the same name. This work is part of the Sherlock Holmes series and is one of the most celebrated mysteries in literature.
The legend of the Hound is deeply rooted in the folklore of Dartmoor, a bleak and desolate moorland in England's West Country. According to local lore, the Hound is a monstrous, spectral dog that haunts the moors, serving as an instrument of supernatural vengeance against the Baskerville family. This curse is said to have originated centuries ago when Hugo Baskerville, an ancestor of Sir Henry Baskerville (the novel's protagonist), abducted and mistreated a local girl. To avenge her death, Hugo was pursued by a hellish hound sent by the devil himself, resulting in his gruesome demise. The legend claims that ever since, a spectral Hound has stalked the moors, waiting to claim another Baskerville life.
In the novel, Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson are summoned to investigate the mysterious death of Sir Charles Baskerville, whose body is found with signs of fright and strangulation on the moor. The enigmatic circumstances surrounding his demise prompt suspicions that the legendary Hound may have played a part in it. As Holmes delves deeper into the case, he becomes increasingly convinced that the supernatural hound is not merely folklore but an actual threat orchestrated by a human hand.
The Hound's description, as depicted in the novel, is terrifying: a large, black dog with blazing red eyes and formidable jaws capable of inflicting severe injuries. Its spectral nature adds to its ominous aura, making it both a symbol of fear and a potent weapon used by the antagonist to instill terror in the Baskerville family.
Throughout the narrative, the Hound serves as more than just a horrifying apparition; it is also a critical element driving the plot forward. The mystery surrounding its existence and the fear it evokes are central to unraveling the complex web of deceit and murder that Holmes and Watson encounter. Ultimately, the resolution of the case hinges on understanding the true nature of the Hound and exposing the human agency behind its supernatural guise.
In conclusion, the Hound of the Baskervilles is not merely a frightening beast from folklore but a pivotal component in one of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's most captivating mysteries. Its legend intertwines with the Baskerville family history, creating an atmosphere of dread and suspense that propels the story to its thrilling conclusion.