"Instinct is a marvelous thing. It can neither be explained nor ignored."
- Agatha Christie- The Mysterious Affair at Styles
Agatha Christie, formally called Dame Agatha Mary Clarissa Christie was known to be an English detective novelist and playwright. She was born in Torquay Devon, England, on the 15th of September and died on the 12th of January in Wallingford, Oxfordshire. Throughout her career, more than one hundred million copies of her books have been sold and have been translated into at least one hundred languages.
Agatha Christie First Works
She wrote her first works at eleven years old; a poem about electric trams that appeared in the English Newspaper. As time went on, she began writing detective novels while working as a nurse during the time of World War I. Her first novel entitled, "The Mysterious Affair at Styles" was published in 1920, after the war. Her books were the first ever mysteries known to man.
Hercule Poirot
Christie's most endearing character in all of her works is "Hercule Poirot", who made an appearance in thirty-three novels, two plays, and fifty shorties published between the years 1920 to 1975. He was a Belgian private detective.
Many actors had played the detective in movies and plays, however, David Suchet nailed it in the television series. He was able to portray the traits and eccentricities of his character in a way that felt truthful and real.
Poirot draws readers in with his unrivaled intelligence, understanding of the criminal mind, and the air of elegance and pride that surrounds him. The only one or thing sharing his spotlight is his mustache. It is said to be luxurious, magnificent, and well-groomed, and is its character. Christie's use of characterization makes Poirot a strange yet likeable character.
Christie's Most Popular Novel: "Murder on the Orient Express"
Many have voted "Murder on the Orient Express" to be Christie's most popular novel, written in 1933. On the luxurious Orient Express, Poirot is approached by Ratchet who recognized the detective and asked for his protection as he had been receiving death treats. Disgusted by him Poirot refused to lend his aid.
On the first night he observed some strange occurrences only to be informed that Ratchet had been stabbed to death and the murder was still on the train. After finding clues and questioning the passengers Poirot comes to the conclusion of the case and reports it to the police.
A good mystery gets the readers thinking "who do it?" and "Murder on the Orient Express" did its job successfully. With all the passengers saying that they are innocent it gets the readers to ponder on each story.
Christie excels in getting people to use their knowledge of detective cases to place themselves in Poirot's shoes and solve the mystery. The mystery leaves a jaw-dropping expression at the realization of the culprits.
Other Works by Agatha Christie
Other of her works are: "The Murder of Roger Ackroyd", "Peril at End House", "And Then There Was None", "Crooked House", "A Murder is Announced", "Endless Night", and "The Body in the Library".
Writing Style
Christie tends to have a simple way of writing for readers to understand. The usage of the plot and a challenging subplot intrigues readers. She is also known to be a master of dialogue with compelling detectives, colorful suspects, and the know-how of true murder mysteries. Her paced dialogue leaves room for heightened suspense which leaves the readers with a want for more.
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