What are the characteristics of Victorian London in private detective fiction?
Victorian London in private detective fiction is a world full of secrets. The city was a bustling metropolis, and in these fictions, it's filled with all sorts of characters. There were the proper, upper - class society members who might be hiding scandals, and the lower - class workers who could be involved in petty or more serious crimes. The language used in these stories is also a feature. It's often formal and elaborate, reflecting the Victorian era's communication style. The means of transportation like horse - drawn carriages are also part of the setting, adding to the authenticity of the Victorian London depicted in the detective fictions.
Well, the Victorian London in private detective fiction is marked by its distinct architecture. The grand buildings and the narrow, dirty alleys are often described. This contrast is important as it can represent the divide between the upper and lower classes. The fashion of the time also features prominently. Detectives and characters are often dressed in typical Victorian clothing which can sometimes give clues about their status or occupation. And the prevalence of crime in certain areas of the city drives the detective stories, making Victorian London a hotbed for mystery and intrigue.
In Victorian London private detective fiction, one characteristic is the detailed description of the city's foggy and gloomy atmosphere. It often sets a mysterious backdrop for the detective's investigations. Another is the complex social hierarchy, with the rich and poor living in very different conditions, which adds to the plot's complexity as the detective may deal with cases involving different social classes. Also, the strict moral code of the Victorian era often influences the behavior and motives of the characters in these fictions.
