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Wilkie Collins
The Moonstone
Series: Detective classic books
This book generally considered the first detective novel in the English language. The Moonstone is a 19th-century British epistolary novel.
A priceless Indian diamond, the Moonstone, is stolen from Rachel Verinder’s home on her birthday, a tangled web of intrigue, deception, and secrets unfolds. As suspicion falls on various individuals, including family members and trusted servants, Sergeant Cuff is called to unravel the mystery. Collins masterfully blends elements of crime, romance, and gothic fiction to deliver a gripping and unforgettable narrative. Rediscover this literary masterpiece that has influenced generations of detective fiction writers.
Wilkie Collins’ The Moonstone is widely regarded as the first full-length detective novel in English literature. Originally published in 1868, this gripping mystery novel set the foundation for many modern detective fiction tropes. The novel revolves around the Moonstone, a legendary Indian diamond with a dark history. The precious gem is stolen from Rachel Verinder’s estate after being gifted to her on her eighteenth birthday. What follows is an enthralling investigation filled with deception, suspicion, and unexpected twists. Collins introduces elements that would later become essential in detective fiction, such as multiple narrators, an eccentric investigator, and red herrings. The novel also delves into issues of colonialism. The Moonstone itself, looted from India, symbolizes British imperialism and its consequences. Through its diverse cast of characters, The Moonstone explores Victorian society’s rigid class structures and gender expectations. Despite being over 150 years old, The Moonstone continues to captivate readers. Its intricate storytelling, psychological depth, and suspenseful plot make it a timeless classic. Wilkie Collins’ The Moonstone is a masterpiece of storytelling that weaves mystery, suspense, and social commentary into one unforgettable narrative.
The Moonstone by Wilkie Collins – A Timeless Detective Classic
Introduction
Plot Overview
Key Themes in The Moonstone
1. Detective Fiction Elements
2. Colonialism and Cultural Conflict
3. Social Class and Gender Roles
Why The Moonstone Still Matters Today
Conclusion