History Extra podcast
Sherlock Holmes: the real history that inspired the detective stories
Dec 27, 2023
Guest Andrew Lycett, a biographer of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, discusses the origins of Sherlock Holmes, including the influence of Conan Doyle's education and mentor, Dr. Joseph Bell. The podcast also explores Conan Doyle's transition from medicine to writing and the historical context of his work.
33:38
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Quick takeaways
- Arthur Conan Doyle's inspiration for Sherlock Holmes came from his mentor, Dr. Joseph Bell, who taught him the importance of observation and empirical inquiry.
- The Holmes stories reflected the changing times in London and Britain, with the decline of British supremacy and the rise of imperial rivalries, influenced by Conan Doyle's political views and sense of stability and conservatism.
Deep dives
The Origins of Sherlock Holmes
Sherlock Holmes was created by Arthur Conan Doyle, an educated doctor who became a writer. Doyle's inspiration for Holmes came from his mentor, Dr. Joseph Bell, who taught him the importance of observation and empirical inquiry. Holmes was introduced to the world in 1886 through Doyle's first short story, 'A Study in Scarlet.' The character gained popularity when Conan Doyle published more stories in Strand Magazine. Holmes quickly became a renowned detective figure and allowed Conan Doyle to pursue a full-time writing career.
