The Character of Dr. Watson in the Sherlock Holmes Stories
The Sherlock Holmes stories by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle feature one of the most iconic characters in literature – Dr. John H. Watson. Watson serves as the narrator for most of the 60 stories and is Sherlock Holmes’ friend, assistant, and flatmate.
Watson’s Role as the Narrator
Having Watson as the narrator serves several important purposes in the stories. First, it allows the reader to discover details about each mystery along with Watson. We learn about Holmes’ deductions and methods alongside the doctor, which builds suspense and interest.
Second, Watson’s more modest intelligence compared to the genius Holmes makes the stories more relatable and understandable for readers. Watson asks questions and needs things explained to him, which helps the reader follow along with Holmes’ brilliant reasoning.
Finally, Watson provides a grounded, human perspective to balance out Holmes’ cold logic and occasional social awkwardness. Through Watson, readers see Holmes’ incredible skills, but also his flaws and habits. This rounded perspective helps make Holmes a fully-formed, believable character.
Watson as Holmes’ Friend and Assistant
In addition to being the narrator, Watson serves as Holmes’ companion and aide. Watson is astounded by Holmes’ observational and deductive abilities, and he provides an appreciative audience for the detective to explain his inferences and reveal how he solved each mystery.
Watson also actively assists Holmes by examining crime scenes, interviewing suspects, keeping notes, and conducting research. At times, Watson even puts himself in physical danger to help Holmes’ investigations. Though Holmes usually solves the main mystery on his own ahead of time, he relies on Watson’s help with legwork and details.
Their friendship provides needed human connection and levity to Holmes’ solitary, eccentric life. Watson cares about Holmes andeven risks his own safety at times to protect him. He also urges Holmes to take better care of his health and wellbeing when absorbed in solving crimes. Their close relationship provides Holmes with more ties to humanity than just his cold logic.
Watson as a Character in His Own Right
While Watson serves important functions in Sherlock Holmes stories, he is also a fully developed character in his own right. Throughout the stories, readers learn about his background as an army surgeon, his relationship and eventual marriage to Mary Morstan, and interests like playing rugby and betting on horse races.
