What is Detective Fiction?

The murder mystery, the crime thriller, the classic detective story. Detective fiction has been around since the mid-nineteenth century and its popularity doesn’t show any sign of waning. But what exactly is detective fiction?

At the heart of every detective story is a crime — most often a murder because the crime has to be big and serious — and the subsequent investigation to solve it. The story follows a detective, whether professional, amateur, or somewhere in between, as they sift through evidence, question suspects, and ultimately piece together the mystery. But the who did it is not the only question to be answered. The reader wants to know how the murderer did it and why. It’s this part of the investigation that really keeps the reader hooked.

In traditional detective fiction, there are certain tropes, readily identifiable characters and scenarios. These could make detective fiction stories formulaic and predictable, but somehow they don’t. readers look forward to recognising these tropes – its part of the fun.

These tropes include the "brilliant but eccentric detective" trope. This character is often a genius, someone who has an intellect and insight that other mere mortals don’t. The most famous of these is, of course, Sherlock Holmes, a creation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Holmes, with his incredible powers of deduction and keen observation skills, set the standard for what a detective should be. His methodical approach to solving crimes, paired with his rather odd personality and somewhat bohemian traits, has made him the most enduring figures in detective fiction. He can be kept in Victorian London or he can be brought forward to the twenty-first century. Holmes truly is a man for all seasons.

Then there’s the "faithful sidekick" trope, a character who accompanies the detective, and our friend and informant inside the story. Dr John Watson, Holmes’s loyal companion, is the quintessential sidekick. His narration not only makes the complex workings of Holmes’s mind more accessible but also adds depth to Holmes’s character, highlighting both his brilliance and his flaws.

Another staple of detective fiction is the "locked-room mystery." This trope involves a crime, again most often a murder, committed in seemingly impossible circumstances—like a room locked from the inside with no apparent means of escape. These puzzles are designed to challenge both the detective and the reader, pushing the boundaries of logical reasoning. How could the crime have been committed? The solution to a locked-room mystery often requires thinking outside the box, making it one of the most engaging and satisfying types of detective stories.

Detective fiction also thrives on the use of red herrings—misleading clues designed to distract and confuse. These false leads add layers of complexity to the story, keeping both the detective and the reader on their toes. The challenge of sifting through these red herrings to find the truth is part of what makes detective fiction so engrossing.

The genre has evolved over time, expanding beyond its early roots. While British detectives like Holmes and Agatha Christie’s Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple have long been at the forefront, modern detective fiction has introduced a broader range of characters and settings. From gritty urban environments to small-town mysteries, from hard-boiled detectives to amateur sleuths, the genre continues to diversify and innovate.

Detective series, in particular, have become a cornerstone of the genre. These series often feature a recurring detective who solves a new case in each instalment, allowing readers to develop a deeper connection with the characters over time. Agatha Christie’s Hercule Poirot is a prime example; his meticulous approach to solving crimes and his unique personality have made him a beloved figure in detective fiction. Similarly, detective series like Raymond Chandler’s Philip Marlowe novels or more contemporary series like Michael Connelly’s Harry Bosch stories continue to draw readers into their complex worlds.

In conclusion, detective fiction is more than just a genre—it’s a captivating blend of intellect, intrigue, and imagination. The appeal of detective fiction lies in its ability to engage the mind and keep us guessing until the very end. With its timeless tropes, intricate plots, and unforgettable characters, detective fiction remains as popular and relevant as ever, offering readers the ultimate literary puzzle to solve.

Image: Goldwyn Pictures, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons