PBS’s new three-part series, Lucy Worsley’s Holmes Vs. Doyle, sets out to examine the uneasy relationship between author Arthur Conan Doyle and his enduring creation, Sherlock Holmes. Worsley, a historian and Holmes aficionado, takes on this literary mystery with her signature blend of meticulous research and engaging storytelling.
The series will chronicle the parallel lives of Doyle and Holmes, setting both against the backdrop of their era, from Victorian England to the upheaval of World War I. This contextual approach aims to illuminate not only the stories themselves but also the social and historical forces that shaped them. So, while we may see a familiar deerstalker hat or a glimpse of Baker Street, expect Worsley to unearth the deeper currents that ran beneath the surface of Doyle’s world.
The central enigma, of course, is Doyle’s eventual resentment of his most famous character. Why would an author come to loathe a creation that brought him fame and fortune? Was it simply the desire to pursue other literary endeavors, or did something more complicated simmer beneath the surface? Worsley’s investigation looks to unpack these questions, offering viewers a fresh perspective on the literary dynamic. This exploration will touch upon significant historical events, including the Boer War and World War I, examining their impact on both Doyle’s life and his writing.
Lucy Worsley’s Holmes Vs. Doyle premieres Sunday, December 8, 2024, at 8:00 PM ET on PBS. Subsequent episodes will air for the following two Sundays. For those who prefer streaming, episodes will be accessible on PBS.org and the PBS app.
