A Scandal in Bohemia

“A Scandal in Bohemia” is Doyle’s first short story featuring Sherlock Holmes. How does this story demonstrate the enduring legacy and appeal of the iconic sleuth?

Doyle bookends the story with the description of Adler as “the woman.” How does Watson’s portrayal of Adler in the opening paragraph foreshadow the story’s conclusion? What does the closing line reveal about Holmes?

Consider the story’s use of false identity and disguise. Which character is the true master of disguise, and why? Support your argument with evidence from the text.

All characters in the story have no qualms about breaking the law or social mores. What does this say about Doyle’s perception of Victorian England?

Cite and analyze three examples of how Adler subverts Victorian England gender roles.

Consider how the men in “A Scandal in Bohemia” portray Adler and compare their perceptions with her closing letter. Why does Doyle include a letter from Adler’s point of view, and what does the letter reveal about her character?

Why does Holmes want the photograph of Adler as his only compensation?

The story explores the dichotomy of logic and emotion. Watson depicts Holmes as a man of the highest logic but maintains that emotions, especially love, are “abhorrent to [Holmes’s] cold, precise but admirably balanced mind” (61). Is Watson correct in his assessment of Holmes? Consider the ending and cite evidence from the text to support your argument.