The Secret Marriage of Sherlock Holmes and Other Eccentric Readings

by Michael Atkinson

Book Overview

The Secret Marriage of Sherlock Holmes is about reading, a process that we take for granted. But Sherlock Holmes, the cultural icon to whose exploits Michael Atkinson gives new readings, became famous by taking nothing for granted. Holmes's adventures can be read in new ways, including ways that he himself would have found startling, but which can give contemporary readers satisfaction. In clear, accessible prose that will engage specialists...

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0472107100
• ISBN13: 9780472107100
• Release Date: August 1996
• Publisher: University of Michigan Press
• Length: 208 Pages
• Weight: 1.01 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.9" x 6.3" x 9.3"

Customer Reviews

A stimulating read

This is a book about reading - not just casual reading, but a considered form of reading employing techniques not unlike those of Sherlock Holmes himself.The author takes a sample of the Holmesian Canon and subjects them to careful analysis to come up with sometimes surprising results. Atkinson describes his readings as "eccentric", a view which I must support. By drawing parallels between the stories and a variety of literary, pop cultural and religious matters, some far better known than others, Atkinson reveals sidelights on well-known stories which should delight many readers.The book would be of interest to students of literary criticism or ardent Holmesians, and especially to those who are both.My view: a good and stimulating read that encouraged me to re-read old favouites.