Introduction. Narrating Crime: The Development of English- and German-Language Detective Fiction

Abstract

This essay explores the evolution of English- and German-language detective fiction, tracing its roots from the 19th century to its modern reinterpretations. Through a historical and thematic analysis, the author outlines the genre's development, examining its transformation from popular entertainment to a tool for social and psychological reflection. Key contributions from authors such as Edgar Allan Poe and Arthur Conan Doyle, who defined the canonical rules of the mystery genre, are highlighted, along with subsequent interpretations of figures like Sherlock Holmes and Golden Age detectives. The essay also examines narrative innovations introduced by authors such as Friedrich Dürrenmatt, who deconstructed the classic genre, adding a critical dimension to detective fiction. Finally, contemporary developments, including genre hybridization and the influence of technology, are discussed, suggesting a future where detective fiction continues to evolve, reflecting the moral and social complexities of modern society.