The Secrets of Great Mystery and Suspense Fiction

Examining controversial viewpoints about the first true mystery novel; studying important components of early mysteries; reasons for continuing endurance of stories penned by Poe, Doyle and Christie; exploring the types of stories in the genre.

Exploring the role of the detective whose presence is a staple in the genre; scrutinizing the ways in which detectives are portrayed and the similarities between a variety of characters that make the most unique detectives oddly familiar.

Difference between the criminal and the detective; exploring a fascinating cast of notorious characters who have survived through the annals of time; the dynamic between criminals and law enforcement ; learning how to perfect this balance.

Learning about the characterization of the sidekick and the role's importance; exploring the roles fulfilled by the sidekick that range from the straight man in what could be a very long joke to the secret brilliant mind behind every solved case.

The importance of the clue and its necessity for the successful mystery story; rules surrounding the presentation and reveal of clues; subjectivity of this narrative element; learning how clues can be used to hinder and solve mysteries.

Examining the components of a good mystery including the detective, criminal, sidekick and clue; learning about the perfect reveal and its impact; how open-ended mysteries walk the line between frustrating and compelling.