Summary and Analysis of "A Study in Scarlet"

In Arthur Conan Doyle's A Study in Scarlet, we are introduced to the world of Sherlock Holmes, as seen through the eyes of Doctor John Watson, Holmes' new flatmate. The story begins with Watson recently having returned home after being released from the British military due to injury sustained in the line of duty. He is now living in England, and in desperate need of a place to live. Luckily, he runs into an old acquaintance of his who just happens to know someone else in need of a flatmate. After meeting this stranger who introduces himself as Sherlock Holmes and somehow knows details of John's life (despite not having been told of him), the doctor gave into his curiosity and decides to move in with him; the address is 221B Baker Street. After living with Holmes and his unique personality traits, Watson is introduced to Holmes' equally unique line of work: as the world's only consulting detective. The reason of Holmes' current participation in an official murder investigation is, at first unclear to John Watson (who is convinced to tag along on the insistence of Holmes himself.), but later becomes obvious when he witnesses Holmes' approach to solving crimes. Although eccentric, Holmes' methods gets results, and Watson and his new friend soon find themselves completely embroiled in a web of lies and deceit that only Sherlock Holmes himself seems to understand. I will spare you the Spoilers in telling you the ending, but let me assure you that it does not disappoint (I can't believe I just said that *face meets with palm in an abrupt fashion*).


I will now discuss the relationship between Sherlock Holmes and John Watson (not that kind of relationship. Sorry shippers!). Their relationship is certainly an interesting one, stemming, it seems, from a common appreciation for each others' talents. With Watson, the appreciation is apparent from the beginning. He is amazed when Holmes first deducts that he was in Afghanistan, and that amazement grows as the case unfolds. In Holmes' case, his appreciation of is less apparent, but no less strong. Watson offers Holmes a companionship he had never before experienced (stop it...). In addition to the friendship, Watson also gives Holmes a different viewpoint, allowing for new angles for Holmes to pursue in his investigating.