Benefits of Watson as Narrator:
* Relatability: Watson is a more relatable figure than the brilliant but often eccentric Holmes. As a doctor, he's a grounded, ordinary person whose reactions to the strange events are more readily understood by the reader. This makes the story more accessible and engaging.
* Suspense: By narrating through Watson's eyes, the story can build suspense more effectively. The reader experiences the mystery alongside him, sharing in his puzzlement, fears, and eventual understanding of the events.
* Humor and Lightness: Watson's narration adds a touch of humor and lightness to the story. His observations, his occasional misunderstandings, and his admiration for Holmes create a balance to the often dark and suspenseful nature of the plot.
* Character Development: The narration allows us to see Holmes from Watson's perspective, which gives us a more rounded picture of the famous detective. We see his strengths, but also his flaws, his eccentricities, and his moments of vulnerability.
Drawbacks of Watson as Narrator:
* Limited Perspective: The story is told from a limited perspective. We only see and understand what Watson sees and understands. This can sometimes obscure crucial details or insights that Holmes might have.
* Potential for Misinterpretation: Watson, while intelligent, is not always a perfect observer. He occasionally misinterprets events or misses important clues, which can sometimes lead to confusion for the reader.
* Lack of Direct Insight into Holmes' Mind: While we get a glimpse of Holmes' thoughts and deductions through Watson's reporting, we don't have direct access to his inner workings. This limits the reader's ability to fully understand the genius behind Holmes' methods.
In Summary:
Conan Doyle's choice of Watson as narrator in "The Hound of the Baskervilles" was a deliberate one that aimed to enhance the story's impact and create a richer reading experience. While it does have certain limitations, the benefits of relatability, suspense, and humor ultimately outweigh the drawbacks, making the choice of Watson as narrator a successful one.