Publisher's Synopsis
Everything you need in one book! If you want more than a simple study guide, this is the book for you. The Introduction to this edition sets out the development of the detective genre so that the reader can appreciate the substantial contribution Conan Doyle made. It also details the basic elements of a detective mystery. The characters are outlined, and essential historical background is explained. Together this information will help you develop your own ideas about this early detective novel. Side-by-side with the text of the novel, probing questions, commentary, notes and vocabulary aid the reader's understanding of the plot, characters, and themes. The commentary and notes aid understanding of British places and phrases as well as historical references. To enhance the reading of the text vocabulary definitions of selected words is also provided. The Critical Analysis section provides character analyses of Holmes and Watson, detailed analysis of the plot and of Holmes' methods, and a background to British Colonialism in India. The Appendix offers graphic organizers which help the reader to understand what Holmes means by "scientific" detection. If you are studying for an exam or simply wanting to read "The Sign of Four" at a deeper level this is what you need.
