What are elements of a mystery?

Definition:

A narrative that involves a crime or intriguing problem which the plot is built. The main character (sleuth) embarks on a search to reveal the hidden secrets to explain the clue-based events, find truth, and solve the problem. The focus is on the character and actions of a person solving a crime rather than on the criminal or victims of the crime.

Purpose:

To involve the reader in the characters’ quest (speculations and predictions) to solve an intriguing problem

To engage the reader in the excitement of suspense leading to the thrill of the solution

To engage the reader in gathering clues, analyzing clues, and prediction

To intrigue/entertain the reader with questions who did it, what happened and why, and if and when the crime or problem will be solved

Characteristics:

Follow narrative structure and contains narrative elements: characters in setting with the problem, creating conflict or tension through events leading to a climax, then a final solution

Sometimes classified as historical fiction, adventure, and realistic fiction

Suspense is the chief element

Includes various subgenres which are defined by the inclusion of public and private detectives as well as amateurs

Theme:

Progressively revealed as character discovers clues to react to events

Characters:

Main characters are fully developed and realistic

Supporting characters are flat, or underdeveloped

The protagonist is the detective, sleuth, or main character, and is fully developed through descriptions of appearance, actions, speech, opinions and what others say and think about him or her

The antagonist is the villain; suspects are also presented as possible villains

The victim is a target of an evil deed

Character reactions to clue-based events provide hints/motives

Setting:

Mood (typically dark, dreary, mysterious, scary)

Can be important or backdrop (unimportant) depending on the type of crime or mystery

Plot:

Focused on a crime, puzzle or unusual problem to solve

Progressive, complex plot development leads to successful resolution which includes a:

1. Series of interrelated events

2. Strategically placed clues(e.g. fingerprints, letters, notes, secret codes) are revealed by observing characters’ actions and motives

3. Progression of “discoveries”

Plot:

4. Development:

a. Conflict = Crime

b. Strategically placed clues and character reactions to clues.

c. Climax involving interactions between sleuth and villain

d. Conclusion revealing motive and resolutions of crime

Author’s craft:

Development of interrelated, suspenseful events

Use of foreshadowing (inclusion of clues to solve the mystery)

Suspenseful cliffhanger chapter endings compel the reader to continue

Red herring (clues) throw reader off track

Infusing clues for the reader 1. Hints provided through dialogues 2. Hints provided by characters’ actions, and observing and

their interactions

Adapted from:

The Genre Project of the Michigan Department of Education