Here's a breakdown of the reactions:
Public Outrage:
* Public Grief: Fans were devastated. Letters poured in to newspapers and Doyle himself, expressing anger and sadness. Many considered it a personal loss.
* Petitions: Petitions were signed, demanding Doyle resurrect Holmes. Some even went so far as to declare they would refuse to read any future Doyle stories.
* Theatrical Performances: In London, a theater announced that they would continue to stage Sherlock Holmes plays despite the character's demise, proving his enduring popularity.
Literary Impact:
* Boost to Holmes's Fame: Ironically, Doyle's decision cemented Holmes's position as a cultural icon. The public's reaction demonstrated his enduring appeal and ensured his legacy.
* The "Empty Chair" Effect: Holmes' absence in later stories made their presence even more powerful. The anticipation of his return added a layer of intrigue to Doyle's writing.
* The Return of the King: The public outcry ultimately led Doyle to bring Holmes back in "The Adventure of the Empty House" (1903), a move that further solidified the character's status.
Conan Doyle's Perspective:
* Desire for New Challenges: Doyle, a prolific writer, was eager to explore other genres and characters. He felt he had exhausted the potential of Sherlock Holmes.
* Personal Reasons: Doyle was deeply affected by the loss of his brother, and the darkness of the story mirrored his own grief.
* Public Pressure: Though Doyle initially stood firm on his decision, the overwhelming public reaction eventually persuaded him to bring Holmes back.
The Enduring Legacy:
Doyle's decision to kill Holmes, despite the initial backlash, ultimately proved to be a masterstroke. It created a sense of enduring fascination with the character, ensuring his continued relevance in popular culture for over a century.