Between ingenuity and the analytic ability there exists a difference far greater, indeed, than that between the fancy and the imagination, but of a character very strictly analogous. It will be found, in fact, that the ingenious are always fanciful, and the truly imaginative never otherwise than analytic.
Edgar Allan Poe, The Murders in the Rue Morgue (C. Auguste Dupin, #1)
On April 20, 1841, Edgar Allan Poe published “Murders in the Rue Morgue,” a short story that is widely regarded as the first detective story. The story follows the investigation of a brutal double murder in Paris, and introduces the character of C. Auguste Dupin, a brilliant amateur detective who uses logic and deduction to solve the case.
The story is notable for its intricate plot and attention to detail, as well as its vivid descriptions of the crime scene and the characters involved. Poe’s writing style is both concise and detailed, allowing readers to follow the investigation step by step and piece together the clues along with Dupin.
If C. Auguste Dupin was never created, would we have Sherlock Holmes?
Edgar Allan Poe’s character, C. Auguste Dupin, was a major influence on Doyle’s creation of Sherlock Holmes. “A Study in Scarlet,” the first Sherlock Holmes novel, Holmes himself mentions Dupin and his methods as an inspiration. Overall, it is clear that C. Auguste Dupin played a significant role in the development of Sherlock Holmes and Doyle’s writing.
“Murders in the Rue Morgue” is a groundbreaking work of fiction that paved the way for the modern detective genre. Its influence can be seen in countless works of literature, film, and television, and it remains a classic of the mystery genre to this day.
On The Road Book Club 
“Murders in the Rue Morgue” was a favorite of mine when I was a kid. C. Auguste Dupin is such a clever fellow!
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He was indeed, Liz. Dupin’s ability to solve seemingly unsolvable cases using his powers of observation and reasoning inspired me to be more observant and intentional. After reading “The Purloined Letter” I practiced focusing and soon found that external stimuli caused distractions. That was when I realized how easy it was to overlook important details. I decided to take breaks in my studies which helped me with my focus. Isn’t it interesting that a short story would have so much influence in other areas of my life?!!! Thank you Edgar Allan Poe! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
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Good fiction does have the ability to do that!
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It’s a while since I have read any Edgar Allan Poe, and this one not at all, so thanks for reminding me of yet another author to stack onto my TBR pile (sigh …)
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Thank you for celebrating this milestone, Margaret!! Reading Edgar Allan Poe stories and poems can provide insight into the human psyche and the darker aspects of the human condition. I am glad that something else’s TBR stack of books is nearing the ceiling.
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Only the ceiling??? 😉
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😂😂😂
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Great choice, Rebecca. I’m sure I must have read this in high school. I certainly remember reading The Raven, The Telltale Heart, and The Cask of Amontillado. But I just don’t remember Rue Morgue. Naturally, I’ve seen the title dozens of times. Anyhow thanks for your insights. Hugs.
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The first time I met up with Edgar Allan Poe was when I read, “The Purloined Letter” a short story by Edgar Allan Poe that follows the detective C. Auguste Dupin as he attempts to retrieve a stolen letter that contains compromising information about a prominent figure. The story is set in Paris and involves a complex game of cat and mouse between Dupin and the thief, who is revealed to be a high-ranking government official. I thought it was the most brilliant story.
I have found that Poe is not an easy read because he takes us to dark places that we rarely go. I just found short story by Poe that I have never heard of before: “The Masque of the Red Death”. I read that the tale is set in a plague-ridden kingdom where Prince Prospero invites his wealthy friends to take refuge in his abbey. Despite their attempts to avoid the disease, a mysterious figure dressed in red appears at the masquerade ball and brings death to all those in attendance. I have it on my TBR pile, but I will ensure that I have the lights on when I read this story.
Sending hugs on the wing!!
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Best not to read “The Masque of the Red Death Death” during an epidemic or pandemic. It scared the pants off me the first time I read it.
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Don and I were discussing Poe’s ability to induce fear, unlike any other writer. Remember the Pit and the Pendulum” and “The Premature Burial”. YIKES. I am saving The masque of the Red Death for an early morning read.
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Yes, to remembering both. *shudder*
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Great post, Rebecca! Poe probably being the founder of the modern detective genre — what a distinction! I remember first reading “The Murders in the Rue Morgue” as a teen, and was absolutely blown away. I still have that Poe story collection, now falling apart.
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Thank you so much for adding to the conversation. Don and I discussed how Edgar Allan Poe could create tension and horror. He is a master of the macabre and a pioneer of the detective fiction genre. When I read Sherlock Holmes, I am interested in the plot, without the feeling that I am reading gothic horror. But when I read Edgar Allan Poe, I am swept away in his darkness. He is SCARY!!
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