The Sign of Four is a classic Sherlock Holmes novel... Show more
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Knowunity Cyborg
11/05/2023
English Literature
English Literature ~ The Sign of Four
1,211
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11 May 2023
•
The Sign of Four AQA Exam Guide PDF Free Download - Summary, Quotes & Characters
Knowunity Cyborg
@knowunitycyborg
Literary Context and Analysis Tools
This page delves deeper into the literary context of "The Sign of Four" and provides students with essential analytical tools for their Sign of Four GCSE studies.
Author Background
Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the author, had a diverse background that influenced his writing:
- Trained as a doctor before becoming a writer
- Published his first Sherlock Holmes story, "A Study in Scarlet," in 1887
- Interested in sports, politics, spiritualism, and social justice
Highlight: Conan Doyle's medical training likely influenced his creation of Dr. Watson and the analytical methods used by Sherlock Holmes.
Victorian London Setting
The novel is set in Victorian London, which is described as:
- A dirty, busy, and overpopulated city
- Experiencing rapid growth and industrialization
- Marked by extreme wealth disparities
- Often shrouded in thick fog, known as "pea-soupers"
Vocabulary: A "pea-souper" refers to the dense, often yellowish smog that frequently enveloped London during the Victorian era, caused by air pollution and fog.
British Empire and Race Relations
The novel reflects the height of British imperialism:
- Britain was a global superpower with numerous colonies
- Colonization was justified through a sense of moral responsibility
- Native peoples were often portrayed as inferior to justify British rule
Example: The portrayal of Tonga in the novel reflects common Victorian attitudes towards colonized peoples, presenting him as savage and uncivilized.
Gender Roles and Class Structure
Victorian society was characterized by strict social norms:
- Women were considered inferior and dependent on male relatives
- Class divisions were rigid and clearly defined
- Middle-class values emphasized Christian beliefs, hard work, and respectability
Quote: The text notes that women were "only able to inherit if there was no male heir," highlighting the gender inequality of the time.
Victorian Detective Novel Genre
"The Sign of Four" belongs to the Victorian detective novel genre, which typically includes:
- Crimes solved through analytical deduction
- Conventions like "locked room" murders and red herrings
- An incompetent police force contrasted with a brilliant detective
Definition: A red herring is a misleading clue that distracts readers from the true solution to the mystery.
This page provides crucial context for students to conduct a thorough Sign of Four analysis, helping them understand the Victorian context in the sign of four analysis GCSE and prepare for high-level responses in their exams.
Important Exam and Novel Information
This page provides essential information about "The Sign of Four" by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle for AQA GCSE English Literature exams. The novel, published in 1890, is part of the Sherlock Holmes series and is set in Victorian London.
Exam Details
The exam for this text is Paper 1 (8702) Section B. Students will face an extract question with no choice, and have 45 minutes to complete it, with 30 minutes recommended for writing.
Key Characters
The page lists main and minor characters, providing brief descriptions for each:
Highlight: Sherlock Holmes is described as a "two-sided 'unofficial consulting detective'", emphasizing his complex nature.
Example: Dr. John Watson serves as both Holmes' assistant and the reader's proxy, allowing the audience to experience the story through his perspective.
Quote: Tonga, Jonathan Small's accomplice, is described as "fierce, morose and intractable."
Historical Context
The Victorian Era provides the backdrop for the novel, characterized by:
- Rapid advancements in medicine, science, technology, and industry
- Growth of cities like London
- The height of the British Empire and imperialism
- Strict social class divisions and gender roles
Vocabulary: Imperialism refers to a country extending its power through colonization of other territories.
Literary Information
The page also includes important literary terms relevant to analyzing the novel:
Definition: A doppelganger is a surprising double of a person, which can be used for dramatic effect in literature.
Highlight: Understanding literary devices such as foreshadowing, imagery, and symbolism is crucial for a deep analysis of the text.
This comprehensive overview provides students with a solid foundation for Sign of Four revision and prepares them for in-depth Sign of Four analysis in their exams.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
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4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The Sign of Four AQA Exam Guide PDF Free Download - Summary, Quotes & Characters
Knowunity Cyborg
@knowunitycyborg
The Sign of Four is a classic Sherlock Holmes novel by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, set in Victorian London. This Sign of Four analysis provides key information for students studying the text for AQA GCSE exams.
- The novel features complex... Show more
Literary Context and Analysis Tools
This page delves deeper into the literary context of "The Sign of Four" and provides students with essential analytical tools for their Sign of Four GCSE studies.
Author Background
Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the author, had a diverse background that influenced his writing:
- Trained as a doctor before becoming a writer
- Published his first Sherlock Holmes story, "A Study in Scarlet," in 1887
- Interested in sports, politics, spiritualism, and social justice
Highlight: Conan Doyle's medical training likely influenced his creation of Dr. Watson and the analytical methods used by Sherlock Holmes.
Victorian London Setting
The novel is set in Victorian London, which is described as:
- A dirty, busy, and overpopulated city
- Experiencing rapid growth and industrialization
- Marked by extreme wealth disparities
- Often shrouded in thick fog, known as "pea-soupers"
Vocabulary: A "pea-souper" refers to the dense, often yellowish smog that frequently enveloped London during the Victorian era, caused by air pollution and fog.
British Empire and Race Relations
The novel reflects the height of British imperialism:
- Britain was a global superpower with numerous colonies
- Colonization was justified through a sense of moral responsibility
- Native peoples were often portrayed as inferior to justify British rule
Example: The portrayal of Tonga in the novel reflects common Victorian attitudes towards colonized peoples, presenting him as savage and uncivilized.
Gender Roles and Class Structure
Victorian society was characterized by strict social norms:
- Women were considered inferior and dependent on male relatives
- Class divisions were rigid and clearly defined
- Middle-class values emphasized Christian beliefs, hard work, and respectability
Quote: The text notes that women were "only able to inherit if there was no male heir," highlighting the gender inequality of the time.
Victorian Detective Novel Genre
"The Sign of Four" belongs to the Victorian detective novel genre, which typically includes:
- Crimes solved through analytical deduction
- Conventions like "locked room" murders and red herrings
- An incompetent police force contrasted with a brilliant detective
Definition: A red herring is a misleading clue that distracts readers from the true solution to the mystery.
This page provides crucial context for students to conduct a thorough Sign of Four analysis, helping them understand the Victorian context in the sign of four analysis GCSE and prepare for high-level responses in their exams.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Important Exam and Novel Information
This page provides essential information about "The Sign of Four" by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle for AQA GCSE English Literature exams. The novel, published in 1890, is part of the Sherlock Holmes series and is set in Victorian London.
Exam Details
The exam for this text is Paper 1 (8702) Section B. Students will face an extract question with no choice, and have 45 minutes to complete it, with 30 minutes recommended for writing.
Key Characters
The page lists main and minor characters, providing brief descriptions for each:
Highlight: Sherlock Holmes is described as a "two-sided 'unofficial consulting detective'", emphasizing his complex nature.
Example: Dr. John Watson serves as both Holmes' assistant and the reader's proxy, allowing the audience to experience the story through his perspective.
Quote: Tonga, Jonathan Small's accomplice, is described as "fierce, morose and intractable."
Historical Context
The Victorian Era provides the backdrop for the novel, characterized by:
- Rapid advancements in medicine, science, technology, and industry
- Growth of cities like London
- The height of the British Empire and imperialism
- Strict social class divisions and gender roles
Vocabulary: Imperialism refers to a country extending its power through colonization of other territories.
Literary Information
The page also includes important literary terms relevant to analyzing the novel:
Definition: A doppelganger is a surprising double of a person, which can be used for dramatic effect in literature.
Highlight: Understanding literary devices such as foreshadowing, imagery, and symbolism is crucial for a deep analysis of the text.
This comprehensive overview provides students with a solid foundation for Sign of Four revision and prepares them for in-depth Sign of Four analysis in their exams.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user