Basic Information

Abbreviation: SIXN (J. F. Christ, 1947)
Word length: 8,392 (C. E. Lauterbach, 1960)
First published: Collier's Weekly, April 30, 1994; Strand Magazine, May 1904

Discussion Questions

• There is a consistent theme of Holmes refusing to work with the investigative parties in the area when conducting his own investigation. Why do you think this is?
• What is Holmes’ purpose in having the Central Press Syndicate publish a misleading article?
• What role does the Italian mafia have in the story? What is their purpose?
• Why did Holmes make such a handsome offer for the bust owned by Sandleford?
• There is a moment when Watson notices that Holmes does, in fact, feel pride resulting from the admiration of those around him. Why do you think he acts so cold and acts as if he doesn’t care about it most of the time? Why was this time different?
• Did you ever suspect there might be something hidden inside the busts? If so, when, and why? If not, did you have any other ideas about the significance of the busts?

Film Adaptations

• The Six Napoleons (Jeremy Brett, David Burke, 1986)
• The Six Napoleons (Sherlock Holmes in the 22nd Century, 2001)