Why does Sherlock Holmes remain such an intriguing figure generations after his debut? English professor Kristopher Mecholsky of the Savannah College of Art and Design highlights his origins and worldwide popularity and focuses a magnifying glass on his unique impact on contemporary fans. In the past, Holmes was revered for his technical expertise, with his followers intent on uncovering the detective powers of this fictional character as if he were a real sleuth. Recently, though, there has been a wave of interest in whether Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s creation could be classified as neurodivergent and if adaptations inspired by his literary adventures depict that trait in Holmes with accuracy—or not. Shows such as “House,” “Monk,” and “Elementary,” as well as the BBC’s “Sherlock” have explored this new fascination with various degrees of success. If you know where to look, says Mecholsky, the clues to unlock the real Sherlock Holmes are hiding in plain sight.
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