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a_scandal_in_bohemia.docxA Scandal In Bohemia: Study Questions
CSN, Phil 102, Critical Thinking Instructor: Dr. Raghu
A Scandal in Bohemia
Study Questions
Note: These questions are your own reading comprehension exercise. You are not required to submit your answers.
1. Explain how Holmes deduced that, a) Watson was active in medical practice, b) Watson had been out in vile weather, and c) Watson had a clumsy and careless servant girl.
2. What is the distinction Holmes makes between seeing and observing? How does he illustrate his distinction?
3. Holmes says “It is a capital mistake to theorize before one has data.” (p. 189) Explain and identify his reason for this statement.
4. How did Holmes deduce that the paper on which the note was written was made in Bohemia?
5. How did Holmes deduce that the writer of the note is a German?
6. “There’s money in this case, Watson, if nothing else.” (p. 190) How did Holmes deduce that?
7. Why does Holmes say that if Irene Adler was Godfrey Norton’s client, then it is likely that she would have left the photograph in his keeping, but not likely to have done so if she was his friend or mistress?
8. Why does Holmes say that as a result of her marriage to Godfrey Norton, Irene Adler would be averse to the possibility of the photograph being seen by her new husband?
9. Why does Holmes say that it is unlikely that Irene Adler carries the photograph with her?
10. Why does Holmes rule out the possibility that the photograph would be with her lawyer or banker?
11. Why does Holmes think that the photograph must be in her own house?
12. What does “marm” mean? ( p. 200)
13. What was Holmes’s plan to get Irene Adler to inadvertently show him the location of the photograph? Why does he think that his plan will succeed?
14. “Good night, Mister Sherlock Holmes.” “I’ve heard that voice before,” said Holmes, staring down the dimly lit street. “Now, I wonder who the deuce that could have been.” (pp. 202) Supposing Holmes had recognized that voice, what would he have deduced?
15. “If the lady loves her husband, she does not love your Majesty. If she does not love your Majesty, there is no reason why she should interfere with your Majesty’s (marital) plans.” (p. 203) Complete this argument. What type of argument is it?
16. How did Irene Adler figure out that she had succumbed to Holmes’ trick?
17. Why did Holmes ask for Irene Adler’s photograph when the King offered him a reward?
