The Hound of the Baskervilles · Chapter
The Curse of the Baskervilles explained
Dr.
What happens
Dr. Mortimer reads the ancient Baskerville legend about Hugo Baskerville and the spectral hound, then shares the recent newspaper account of Sir Charles's mysterious death, seeking Holmes's advice.
Themes in this chapter
Reason vs. Superstition
Holmes dismisses the legend as a 'fairy tale,' while Mortimer and Sir Charles took it seriously, highlighting the conflict between rational inquiry and superstitious belief.
The Power of the Past
The ancient curse and the family history exert a strong influence on the present, affecting Sir Charles's behavior and the current mystery.
Inheritance and Greed
The Baskerville lineage and the restoration of the family fortune are central, with Sir Charles's wealth and the inheritance at stake.
Characters to notice
- Dr. James Mortimer
Visits Holmes with the manuscript and newspaper, recounts Sir Charles's fears and the events leading to his death.
- Sherlock Holmes
Listens to the legend and the newspaper account, initially dismissive but becomes attentive.
- Dr. Watson
Observes the manuscript and listens to the readings alongside Holmes.
- Sir Charles Baskerville
Deceased; his fears of the family curse and his sudden death are central to the discussion.
- Hugo Baskerville
The legendary ancestor whose cruel actions supposedly brought the hound curse upon the family.
- Barrymore
The butler who discovered Sir Charles's body and sent for Dr. Mortimer.
- Mr. Stapleton
Mentioned as a mutual friend concerned about Sir Charles's health.
- Mr. Frankland
Mentioned as one of the few educated men living near Baskerville Hall.
Key passages
“I have in my pocket a manuscript... It is an old manuscript... Early eighteenth century, unless it is a forgery.”
Dr. Mortimer presents an old manuscript to Holmes, who dates it to the early 1700s.
Holmes demonstrates his expertise in dating documents.
“Of the origin of the Hound of the Baskervilles there have been many statements...”
The legend of the hound is recounted, tracing back to Hugo Baskerville's cruel deeds.
The curse narrative is introduced.
“The recent sudden death of Sir Charles Baskerville... has cast a gloom over the county.”
The newspaper article describes Sir Charles's death and its impact on the community.
The public facts of the case are presented.