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What are the physical features of Sherlock Holmes?

Published in Literary Characters 2 mins read

Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the creator of Sherlock Holmes, provides vivid descriptions of the renowned detective's physical appearance throughout his stories.

Key Physical Features:

  • Tall and Lean: Holmes is consistently portrayed as a tall and slender man.
  • Dark, Wavy Hair: His hair is described as being dark and wavy, often unkempt and in need of a trim.
  • Sharp, Piercing Eyes: Holmes' eyes are often described as sharp, piercing, and capable of reading people and situations with ease.
  • Hawkish Nose: His nose is prominent and slightly hooked, giving him a somewhat hawk-like appearance.
  • Pale Complexion: Due to his long hours spent indoors and his habit of neglecting his physical health, Holmes often has a pale complexion.

Additional Details:

While Doyle provides these key features, he also emphasizes the detective's peculiar habits and mannerisms that contribute to his overall appearance:

  • Unkempt Appearance: Holmes is often seen in a rumpled coat, with his clothes appearing slightly disheveled and unfashionable.
  • Scruffy Beard: At times, Holmes sports a scruffy beard, adding to his somewhat unkempt appearance.
  • Long, Thin Fingers: His fingers are described as long and thin, which he uses to great effect in manipulating objects and examining evidence.
  • Slender, Powerful Frame: Despite his lean appearance, Holmes possesses a surprising amount of physical strength, which he utilizes when necessary.

Notable Quotes:

  • "He was a tall, thin man, with a long, thin face, sharp, piercing eyes, and a large, prominent nose." - A Scandal in Bohemia
  • "His eyes were sharp and piercing, his nose long and thin, his lips firmly closed." - The Sign of Four

These descriptions paint a picture of a man who is both intelligent and enigmatic, with a keen eye for detail and a unique approach to solving mysteries.

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