Are You There Moriarty Origin?
Sherlock Holmes, the iconic fictional character created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, has been thrilling readers and audiences for over a century. However, one of the most intriguing and complex characters in the Sherlockian universe is undoubtedly Prof. James Moriarty, the arch-nemesis of Holmes. But who is this enigmatic character, and what is his origin? In this article, we’ll delve into the fascinating world of Moriarty’s origin and explore the different theories surrounding this mysterious figure.
A Brief History of Moriarty
Professor James Moriarty first appeared in the 1891 novel "The Final Problem," in which he is described as a mastermind who is able to outwit and undo the work of Sherlock Holmes. Moriarty is presented as a charismatic and brilliant individual with a talent for chemistry, mathematics, and strategy. He is also depicted as a cold, calculating, and ruthless individual who has no qualms about using violence to achieve his goals.
The Canonically Acceptable Origin of Moriarty
According to the original stories written by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, there is no definitive origin story for Moriarty. He appears to have popped into existence suddenly, with no clear background or family connections. However, there are some subtle hints throughout the stories that suggest Moriarty may have had a troubled past. For example, in "The Final Problem," Holmes notes that Moriarty’s eyes are "aching and weary," which some readers have interpreted as a sign of a troubled conscience or a troubled past.
The Fan-Fiction Origin of Moriarty
Over the years, fans of the Sherlock Holmes series have been fascinated by Moriarty’s mysterious nature, and many have created their own origin stories for the character. These fan-fiction tales often draw on historical events, literary figures, and mythological themes to explain Moriarty’s backstory. Some popular theories include:
• The King of the Black Volk: In this popular fan-fiction tale, Moriarty is revealed to be the illegitimate son of a royal or aristocratic family, with a traumatic childhood marked by abuse and neglect. This theory is rooted in the idea that Moriarty’s icy demeanor is a result of his difficult upbringing.
• The Vengeful Outcast: Another fan-fiction theory posits that Moriarty was once a brilliant scientist or academic who was shunned by his peers due to his extremist views or unorthodox methods. This theory suggests that Moriarty’s anger and resentment have driven him to seek revenge against the establishment.
The Real-Life Inspiration for Moriarty
Many fans have also speculated about the real-life inspiration behind Moriarty’s character. Some believe that Doyle was drawing from his own experiences as a pacifist and a critic of the British military establishment. Others suggest that Moriarty was influenced by literary figures such as Dr. Jekyll, relegating him to the role of the shadow self or dark doppelganger to Holmes’s intellectual brooding. While there is no concrete evidence to support these claims, they offer an interesting perspective on the origins of the character.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while there is no single, canonically accepted origin story for Professor James Moriarty, fans have come up with their own theories and interpretations of the character. From the King of the Black Volk to the Vengeful Outcast, these fan-fiction tales offer a glimpse into the mind of this enigmatic and complex individual. Whether you prefer the straightforward, ‘by-the-book’ approach of the original canon or the more sensationalized, over-the-top explanations of fan-fiction, one thing is clear: Moriarty’s origin is as intriguing as it is elusive.
Table: Moriarty’s Character Traits
| trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Intellectual Brilliance | Moriarty is depicted as a mastermind, outwitting and undoing the work of Sherlock Holmes |
| Charisma | He is charming, persuasive, and can manipulate others to achieve his goals |
| Cold Calculation | Moriarty is willing to use violence, manipulation, and intimidation to get what he wants |
| Skills | He has expertise in chemistry, mathematics, and strategy |
Bibliography
- Conan Doyle, A. (1891). The Final Problem. Scribner’s Magazine, 1(3), 315-322.
- See, for example, the discussion on the Sherlockian.net forum, where fans have created their own origin stories for Moriarty. [online] Available at: <https://Sherlockian.net/ [Accessed 20 January 2022].
References
- ""Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s The Final Problem." The Guardian, 24 Jan. 2012, https://www.theguardian.com/books/2012/jan/24/sir-arthur-conan-doyle-the-final-problem.
- "The Making of Professor Moriarty." The Telegraph, 24 Jan. 2012, https://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/books/9061028/The-making-of-Professor-Moriarty.html.
Note: The above article is a work of fiction and is not meant to be taken as factual. It is intended for entertainment purposes only.