Is Holmes’s method of inductive reasoning—observing evidence to arrive at conclusions—realistically effective or merely the lucky guesswork of a contrived fiction? How useful are his critical thinking processes for real life?

Evaluate Holmes’s observations at the beginning of the story (about “the commonplace” being the territory of always astounding curiosities). Are Holmes and Watson just philosophizing here, or are they touching upon a practical reality?

Is Holmes a hero? Is his character trustworthy or noble?