The Speckled Band
I. Drawing Conclusions
1. What was the mystery to be solved?
2. Explain why each of the following clues was important to the mystery and if possible, where
the clue was located.
a. Helen gets engaged
b. Julia hears a low whistle
c. Helen hears a metallic clang
d. Roylott once killed a man in India
e. Julia’s last words (“… the speckled band.”)
f. Julia lit a match
g. the terms of the will
h. the bell rope
i.
the ventilator
j.
the bolted-down bed
k. the barred windows
l.
a saucer of milk
m. a “dog” leash
Understanding the Story:
II.
Setting: ( the action of the story takes place in 2 major settings. Name them.)
III.
Characters: ( using phrases, describe each character.)
HolmesWatsonHelenDr. Roylott-
IV.
V.
Point of View: Who is telling the story? _______________________
Theme: The theme of “The Speckled Band” is stated when Holmes says “Violence does, in
truth, recoil upon the violent. The schemer falls into the pit which he dug for another.”
What does Holmes mean by his remarks?
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VI. Mood: The mood of this story is suspenseful. How does the author (Doyle) build suspense
as Holmes and Watson prepare to investigate the mystery in Julia’s room?
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VII. Plot: Label each with Exposition / Rising Action/ climax/ Falling Action/ Resolution
1) Holmes lashes at the bell- rope with his cane because he realizes he
has solved the mystery.
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2) Helen visits Holmes and presents her mystery.
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3) Dr. Roylott is killed by a swamp adder.
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4) Holmes examines Julia’s room for clues.
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5) Holmes reveals that he does no feel guilty about Roylott’s death.
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Conflict: :
Type of conflict: :