Welcome to a review of all the Sherlock Holmes stories which are collected in the work, “The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes.” They appeared in the Strand Magazine from July 1891 to June 1892. Over the 12 episodes, I will be reviewing each story and mine them for leadership, compliance, and ethical lessons. “A Case of Identity” was published in the Strand Magazine in August 1891 and is the third story in the collection of “The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes”.
Summary
In this case, Mary Sutherland, a typist, approaches Holmes for help after her fiancé, Mr. Hosmer Angel, mysteriously disappears on the day they were to be married. Holmes agrees to take the case. Sutherland gives Holmes a few letters written by Angel, and Holmes quickly observes that they were written on a typewriter, odd for a personal letter. Also, the writing style was similar to the letters of her stepfather, James Windibank.
As Holmes investigates, he deduces that Hosmer Angel does not exist and is, in fact, an alternate identity created by Mary’s stepfather, James Windibank. The motive for this strange charade was financial. Mary’s stepfather didn’t want to lose the income he gained from her, as her late mother left her a significant annual income which would be redirected upon her marriage.
The stepfather, who was young enough to pass as a man of Mary’s age, concocted the alternate identity to court Mary and then conveniently disappear to maintain control over Mary’s income. Holmes, however, decides not to reveal the truth to Mary to save her from further heartbreak. He suggests that Angel was a scoundrel who did not deserve her, leaving her to hope that Angel might return one day.
Compliance Lessons
1. Empathy: Holmes was able to solve the case of identity by putting himself in the shoes of the victim and understanding her perspective. Leaders should also have empathy and be able to understand the perspectives of their colleagues, employees, or customers.
2. Observation: Holmes used his powers of observation to gather information and uncover the truth behind the case of identity. Leaders should also be observant and pay attention to the details, as they can provide valuable insights.
3. Problem-solving skills: Holmes used his problem-solving skills to solve the case and bring justice to the victim. Leaders should also be effective problem-solvers and should be able to find creative solutions to challenges.
4. Communication skills: Holmes communicated effectively with the victim and the other characters in the story, and he was able to get the information he needed to solve the case. Leaders should also have strong communication skills, as they are crucial for building relationships and achieving success.
5. Respect for the law: Throughout the story, Holmes showed respect for the law and acted within the bounds of the legal system. Leaders should also respect the law and act ethically, as they set an example for others and maintain the integrity of their organization.
Resources
The New Annotated Sherlock Holmes
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