At the start of the story, Holmes exhibits a sense of boredom and restlessness. He complains about the lack of interesting cases, stating, "My mind is like a blank sheet of paper. I have nothing to do." This reflects his need for intellectual stimulation and his frustration with the mundane.
By the story's end, Holmes experiences a sense of satisfaction and intellectual fulfillment. He is thrilled to have solved the complex puzzle and outsmarted the cunning villain. He reveals his enjoyment in saying, "It has been a long and weary business, but it has been worth it."
Here's a breakdown of the comparison:
Beginning:
* Boredom and restlessness: He's searching for a challenge, a reason to engage his mind.
* Focus on intellectual stimulation: He craves a complex problem to solve.
End:
* Satisfaction and fulfillment: He's happy to have exercised his skills and outwitted his opponent.
* Appreciation for the process: He recognizes the value of the challenge itself.
The contrast lies in the transition from a state of boredom to one of accomplishment. While Holmes remains intellectually driven, he finds greater satisfaction in the journey of unraveling the mystery, rather than simply the end result. This shift demonstrates the importance of intellectual engagement and the fulfillment that comes from solving a complex problem for Holmes.
In short, "The Red-Headed League" highlights how Holmes thrives on intellectual challenges. The story showcases his progression from seeking stimulation to finding genuine fulfillment through his detective work.