PROMPT: Compare and contrast the characterization of Dr. Watson and Mouse to each other. Some things to consider: LATA (language, action, thoughts, appearance), their relationship to their perepective main characters, time periods and setting (late 1800s Victorian England and 1940s Los Angeles), social conditions ( race and class come to mind), and anything else that may be relevant.

QUESTION

PROMPT: Compare and contrast the characterization of Dr. Watson and Mouse to each other. Some things to consider: LATA (language, action, thoughts, appearance), their relationship to their perepective main characters, time periods and setting (late 1800s Victorian England and 1940s Los Angeles), social conditions ( race and class come to mind), and anything else that may be relevant.

Grading Criteria: Thesis – 7 points, Examples – 4 points, Analysis – 10 points, MUGS (mechanics, usage, grammar, spelling) – 4

Thesis – claim (here’s what) and parameters (so what)

Examples – clear references to the movies

Analysis – thoughtful and detail examination of your examples

MUGS – make sure your use of language does not get in the way of meaning

ANSWER

A Comparative Analysis of Dr. Watson and Mouse: Characterization, Setting, and Social Context

Introduction

In comparing the characters of Dr. Watson from late 1800s Victorian England and Mouse from 1940s Los Angeles, it becomes evident that despite their differences in time period, setting, and social conditions, both characters possess unique qualities that contribute to their respective stories. This essay will analyze the language, actions, thoughts, and appearance (LATA) of Dr. Watson and Mouse, their relationships with their main characters, the social conditions of their respective eras, and other relevant factors, to offer a comprehensive comparison and contrast of these intriguing characters.

Thesis

While Dr. Watson, the loyal and astute companion of Sherlock Holmes, epitomizes the rational Victorian gentleman, Mouse, the street-smart and resourceful associate of Easy Rawlins, embodies the resilient spirit of a marginalized African American man navigating the racially charged atmosphere of 1940s Los Angeles.

Language

Dr. Watson’s language is formal and reflective of the Victorian era, marked by proper grammar and a scholarly tone. In contrast, Mouse’s language is steeped in the colloquialisms and slang of 1940s African American vernacular, reflecting the vibrant street culture of his time.

Actions

Dr. Watson is often portrayed as Holmes’ capable sidekick, assisting him in solving complex mysteries. He takes a more passive role, often observing and documenting events. On the other hand, Mouse actively engages in the dangerous world of private investigation, displaying resourcefulness and quick thinking to help Easy Rawlins navigate the treacherous terrain of racial tension and corruption.

Thoughts

Dr. Watson’s thoughts revolve around his admiration for Holmes’ deductive abilities, and he often marvels at the detective’s intellectual prowess (D. K. Levine, 2012). His musings focus on logical analysis and unraveling complex cases. Mouse, however, possesses a more pragmatic mindset shaped by the social realities he faces, frequently contemplating survival, racism, and the challenges of being a black man in a discriminatory society.

Appearance

Dr. Watson is typically depicted as a well-groomed Victorian gentleman, dressed in formal attire that reflects his social standing. His appearance exudes respectability and adherence to societal norms. Mouse, residing in a predominantly African American neighborhood, dresses more casually and adapts his appearance to blend in with the diverse and dynamic communities of 1940s Los Angeles.

Analysis

The stark contrast in the characterization of Dr. Watson and Mouse can be attributed to the different time periods and social contexts in which they exist. Victorian England, characterized by its rigid class structure and strict social norms, shaped Dr. Watson into a refined and loyal companion to Sherlock Holmes (De Carli, 2018). In contrast, Mouse’s character arises from the racially charged atmosphere of 1940s Los Angeles, where African Americans faced systemic discrimination and had to rely on resourcefulness and street smarts to navigate their lives.

Dr. Watson’s relationship with Sherlock Holmes is built on a foundation of admiration and intellectual camaraderie. He serves as the audience surrogate, helping to guide readers through Holmes’ brilliant deductions. Mouse’s relationship with Easy Rawlins, a black private detective, goes beyond a mere sidekick role. As a fellow African American, Mouse understands the unique challenges and dangers of their shared experiences, providing Rawlins with crucial support and insight.

The social conditions of the respective eras play a significant role in shaping the characters. Dr. Watson’s Victorian England was marked by rigid class divisions and limited opportunities for social mobility (Landale et al., 2017). Mouse’s 1940s Los Angeles, in contrast, was defined by racial segregation, limited employment options, and rampant discrimination. These social conditions influence their language, actions, thoughts, and appearance, reflecting the struggles and realities faced by their respective communities.

Conclusion

Dr. Watson and Mouse, despite their differences in time period, setting, and social conditions, offer captivating insights into the contrasting worlds they inhabit. Through their unique characterization, language, actions, thoughts, and appearance, they not only contribute to the development of their respective main characters but also provide a lens through which we can examine the social contexts in which they exist. By delving into their portrayals, we gain a deeper understanding of the Victorian era and 1940s Los Angeles, shedding light on the diverse experiences and challenges faced by individuals in different historical and social settings.

References

De Carli, E. (2018). The role of adaptations in the reconfiguration of Dr. John Watson within the Sherlock Holmes canon. Ufrgs. https://www.academia.edu/37879485/The_role_of_adaptations_in_the_reconfiguration_of_Dr_John_Watson_within_the_Sherlock_Holmes_canon

Landale, N. S., Oropesa, R. S., & Noah, A. J. (2017). Experiencing discrimination in Los Angeles: Latinos at the intersection of legal status and socioeconomic status. Social Science Research, 67, 34–48. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ssresearch.2017.05.003 

Levine, D. K. (2012). Revalidating Sherlock Holmes for a role in medical education. Clinical Medicine, 12(2), 146–149. https://doi.org/10.7861/clinmedicine.12-2-146