Outline (Question 3)
Intro: The Agatha Christie novel, Murder on the Orient Express, uses multiple characters as a team to
attempt solving the mysterious death aboard the train. However, only detective Poirot can be described
as the ideal reader, while the others are merely used as fools to indirectly make Poirot look all the more
heroic.
Paragraph 1: Poirot’s reputation precedes him, as he is known as a spot on detective. His merit is often
reiterated by other characters to ensure that he is trusted as an ideal reader.
-“I know your reputation. I know something of your methods. This is the ideal case for you.” (Pg. 56)
-“C’est entendu. You place the matter in my hands.” “Good-we are all at your service.” (Pg. 56)
Paragraph 2: Poirot is depicted as much brighter than his associates, making what he says more
believable to the reader.
-“Poirot’s eyes were darting about the compartment. They were bright and sharp like a bird’s. One felt
that nothing could escape their scrutiny.” (pg. 74)
-“And most conveniently she leaves her handkerchief behind!” said Poirot. “Exactly as it happens in the
books and on the films-and to make things even easier for us it is marked with an initial.” (Pg. 74)
-“What a stroke of luck for us!” – Doctor. (Pg. 74) “Is it not?”
Paragraph 3: Hercule Poirot’s perceptiveness is uncanny; he notices things that no one else seems to
pick up on. This occurs several times during the novel.
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“…He commented on the fact that we were surrounded by people of all classes, of all ages, of all
nationalities. That is a fact somewhat rare at this time of year.” –Poirot. (Pg. 251)
“…Then there are some minor points that strike me as suggestive…” (Pg. 251)
“Do they suggest anything to you, those points?” asked Poirot. “Not a thing.” said M. Bouc
frankly. (Pg. 251)