Use of structure in The Sign of the Four
The novel uses 12 chapters, each of them titled, with many of them ending with a hook that encourages the reader to continue. The first chapter establishes the main characters and the second chapter introduces the mystery. The following chapters add complications and build tension, until Holmes proposes his hypothesisA starting point for investigation. An idea or explanation to be tested. in chapter 7. In the following chapters, suspense is built for the reader as the detective and police give chase and eventually track down Jonathan Small.
Finally, the reader learns that Holmes' complicated explanation of how Bartholomew Sholto was killed is correct.
When writing about structure, think about:
- how is the text put together?
- what is significant about this?
- how does it reflect the themes of the text?
- what is the overall effect of the structure?
Evidence and explanation of the structure used
Story arc
This story follows a classic three-part plot: in the first act, the protagonistThe chief character in a literary work. is drawn into conflict or danger; in the second act, there are obstacles in the way of the goal; in the final act, everything is resolved.
In this novel we learn that Holmes actually longs to be drawn into conflict. He wishes for a puzzle or mystery to occupy his restless mind. In Act 1 he is approached by Miss Mary Morstan who enlists Holmes and Watson to help her solve her mystery. The second act sees the build-up of tension when they enter Pondicherry Lodge and learn about the treasure and deaths of the men who have tried to own it. In the third act, the police chase is successful and the mystery is solved. Holmes returns to his initial position of taking drugs.
Storytelling
The main narrator of this novel is Dr John Watson. However, the story is also told through the dialogue of other characters. For example, in Chapter 4, Thaddeus Sholto tells the story of Captain Morstan's disappearance and explains how he and his brother found the treasure.
Later, when they find Bartholomew Sholto murdered, Holmes explains his hypothesis. His explanation is long and appears as a story within the story.
The same technique of storytelling through dialogue is used later when we hear Jonathan Small's confession. His tale supports Holmes' theory, adding few extra details. The reader's impression of Sherlock Holmes as astute and intelligent is therefore confirmed.
How to analyse structure
How important is the overall structure of this novel?
- There's a clear beginning, middle and end to the story - a problem, a hypothesis and a solution
- The mystery is a challenge to the reader as well as the detective
- Watson's story provides a frame for Thaddeus' tale about his father, for Holmes' hypothesis and Small's confession at the end
- It creates tension by building up the mystery, then in the third section, revealing that Holmes' hypothesis is correct
- When Small's confession confirms Holmes' theory, the reader has a sense of admiration for the detective and satisfaction that he has solved the mystery