Memories and Adventures

First published in 1923, this autobiography explores Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's life from his school years to literary success and beyond.

Arthur Conan Doyle (Author)

9781108044042, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 16 February 2012

434 pages, 8 b/w illus.
21.6 x 14 x 2.5 cm, 0.55 kg

Known as 'the great northern diver' to his crewmates, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (1859–1930) fell into the Arctic Ocean on three occasions during his voyage as doctor on a whaler, before becoming part of the harpooning crew. This adventure sets the scene for the remarkable variety of his later life. In his autobiography, first published in 1923, he details everything from that first voyage to his literary success, his collaboration with playwright J. M. Barrie (whose Sherlock Holmes parody is included), and his involvement in the setting up of volunteer groups during the First World War. He describes how the methods of Sherlock Holmes helped him solve several real-life mysteries and, in a touching counterpoint to this scientific approach, closes with a chapter on his belief in spiritualism. Characteristically astute and entertaining, this book will appeal to students of early twentieth-century history, Holmes fans and the curious general reader alike.

Preface
1. Early recollections
2. Under the Jesuits
3. Recollections of a student
4. Whaling in the Arctic Ocean
5. My voyage to West Africa
6. My first experiences in practice
7. My start at Southsea
8. My first literary success
9. Pulling up the anchor
10. The great break
11. Sidelights on Sherlock Holmes
12. Norwood and Switzerland
13. Egypt in 1896
14. On the edge of a storm
15. An interlude of peace
16. The start for South Africa
17. Days with the army
18. Final experiences in South Africa
19. An appeal to the world's opinion
20. My political adventures
21. The years between the wars
22. The years between the wars (contd.)
23. Some notable people
24. Some recollections of sport
25. To the Rocky Mountains in 1914
26. The eve of war
27. A remembrance of the dark years
28. Experiences on the British Front
29. Experiences on the Italian Front
30. Experiences on the French Front
31. Breaking the Hindenburg Line
32. The psychic quest.

Subject Areas: Literary studies: from c 1900 - [DSBH]