Advertisements
Advertisements
Question
Write the character sketch of Dr. Watson as a sensitive character.
Solution
Dr. John Watson is the narrator of the story. From his admiring description of Miss Mary Morstan and his appreciative expression of Holmes’ abilities to his detailed account of the evening scene in London and his depiction of each emotion felt by the characters, Dr. Watson’s insightful narration helps the readers experience the story through his eyes. However, Dr. Watson is not merely the narrator of the story; he is also Holmes’ closest friend as well as his assistant. A doctor by profession, Watson is an empathetic man, who understands emotions and situations on a level that Holmes fails to understand. He is the second-most important character in the story, after Holmes. This is because he helps Holmes comprehend the sensitive aspects of situations, which is not Holmes’ strong suit. Though Holmes is extraordinarily gifted, this does not stop Watson from arguing with him, making him the only one capable of tolerating Holmes and proving that he is the perfect companion for the eccentric detective. His admiration for Miss Morstan shows us his romantic side and his hesitation to feel worthy of Miss Morstan’s affection portrays him as a true gentleman. He excels in sensing a person’s state of mind which makes him more sensitive and humane.
APPEARS IN
RELATED QUESTIONS
Read the extract again and complete the web by highlighting the qualities of the following character:
Read the extract again and complete the web by highlighting the qualities of the following character:
Read the extract again and complete the web by highlighting the qualities of the following character:
Describe the character of Mary Morstan from Dr. Watson’s point of view.
Sherlock Holmes is the leading character in the extract. Explain.
Holmes is always one step ahead of Dr. Watson in solving cases. Elucidate.
Cite various references (lines) from the extract that tell us about the time and period of the events.
| Lines | Time and period |
How does the series of actions go from London to India? Explain by citing references from the extract.
The extract begins when Mary Morstan meets Sherlock Holmes at his house. After that Holmes, Dr. Watson, and Mary visit some places in London. Explain in detail the various places mentioned in the extract.
Basically the setting of the extract is in London but it has some references of India, too. Explain how the settings of the extract contribute to the theme of the novel.
Describe in brief the importance of the following place in the extract.
London
Describe in brief the importance of the following place in the extract.
Lyceum Theatre
Describe in brief the importance of the following place in the extract.
Agra
Write in brief the theme of the extract of the novel ‘The Sign of Four’.
Write 4-5 sentences about the meeting of Miss Morstan with Holmes.
Write the central idea of the given extract of the novel, “The Sign of Four”.
Give reasons:
| Statement | Reason/s |
| (a) Miss Morstan plans to meet Sherlock Holmes | |
| (b) Miss Morstan gives the reference of Mrs. Cecil Forrester | |
| (c) It’s a singular case | |
| (d) Holmes needed some references | |
| (e) Miss Morstan received a pearl every year | |
| (f) The coachman confirmed that neither of Miss Morstan’s companion was a police officer |
Elaborate the following line in the light of the novel/extract, “The Sign of Four” -
“You really are an automaton − a calculating machine.”
Elaborate the following line in the light of the novel/extract, “The Sign of Four” -
“The letter speaks of giving her justice. What justice can she have?”
Elaborate the following line in the light of the novel/extract, “The Sign of Four” -
“Our quest does not appear to take us to very fashionable regions.”
Following are some dialogues of the major characters in the extract. Find out who the speaker is, his/her tone, style, significance, etc. of the dialogue.
| Dialogue | Speaker | To Whom it is said | Tone, Style, Significance, etc. |
| “….you have once enabled my employer, Mrs. Cecil Forrester, to unravel a little domestic complication. She was much impressed by your kindness and skill.” | |||
| “You will, I am sure, excuse me.” | |||
| “Your statement is most interesting. Has anything else occurred to you?” | |||
| “Are you the parties who come with Miss Morstan?” | |||
| “The Sahib awaits you.” |
The reception of six pearls helps the story to move forward by providing some connection with the other happenings. Illustrate.
Describe the desired destination of the parties in your words by providing some details.
Write the character sketch of Sherlock Holmes as a professional detective.
Compare the thought process of Holmes and Dr. Watson in handling the case.
Answer in about 50 words to the question given below:
Narrate the case of Miss Morstan in your words.
Sherlock Holmes deduced facts from the back files of the times. Justify by providing few details.
Dr. Watson reflects Miss Morstan's state of mind. Discuss with some examples.
The mention of new places adds a pace to the story. Justify.
M Morstan found Holmes as right person to handle her case. Give reason.
The paper found in the desk of captain Morstan is the center of the action. Explain.
Find support from the text which elaborates the tone of the narrator when he compares himself with Miss Morstan.
The narrator makes Miss Morstan’s journey comfortable while going to an unknown place. Narrate in your words.
‘The coachman is described as a faithful servant’. Justify the statement in your words.
Holmes, Dr. Watson and Mary Morstan reached at the third pillar of the Lyceum Theatre. Describe the state of mind of the trio.
Describe how Sherlock Holmes discovered the connection between Miss Morstan receiving precious pearls with Major Sholto.
Pick the odd one out:
Miss Morstan received a pearl every year. Give reason.
Activities based on the extract of the novel ‘The Sign of Four’.
Describe the significance of Mary Morstan’s visit to the Lyceum Theatre with Holmes and Dr. Watson.
Answer in about 50 words to the questions given below:
Write the importance of various places such as ‘Holmes’ residence, Lyceum Theatre and unknown destination with reference to "The Sign of Four."
