The crime novel, as a genre, brings together its sin, its reason for being, and the ultimate meaning of its success from the very beginning. The serialization of novels in the 19th century found in contemporary crime literature its best mold to fit and succeed in a 21st century dominated by audiovisual media. With the serialization of novels comes the emergence of recurring characters. Authors like Arthur Conan Doyle, tired of Sherlock Holmes, experienced the effects of overwhelming success of a protagonist, ultimately killing him off in 1894 in “The Final Problem” and then resurrecting him eight years later due to social pressure. This paved the way for creators to delve deeper into this aspect, creating unforgettable characters such as Hercules Poirot, Philip Marlowe, Jules Maigret, and later on, Martin Beck, Kinsey Millhone, Kay Scarpetta, and many more.
Fans follow these characters’ adventures, quirks, virtues, and struggles better than anyone else. As Umberto Eco said, it’s about providing the reader with “the regressive pleasure of the return to the expected.” Genre literature in Spain started later than in other countries but with great strength. The following is a selection of the most significant detectives in the genre in Spain, highlighting their defining characteristics and some interesting facts. A complete map of Spain according to its investigators. The development of genre literature in Spain has been slow but steady, producing iconic characters like Pepe Carvalho, Aída, Víctor Ros, and Miquel Mascarell, each with their unique traits and mysteries to solve.
The evolution of the crime novel in Spain has been marked by the emergence of new detectives and new challenges for them to overcome. From the gritty streets of Barcelona to the sophisticated world of high society, Spanish crime literature has explored various themes and settings. The detective novel has become a reflection of society, addressing social issues and human nature through the lens of crime and investigation. With each new detective, readers are treated to a fresh perspective on crime and morality, shedding light on the complexities of the human psyche.
Despite starting later than other countries, Spain has made significant contributions to the crime genre, with a rich tapestry of detectives and their unique characteristics. From the classic hard-boiled detective to the modern forensic investigator, Spanish crime literature offers a diverse range of protagonists and narratives. As the genre continues to evolve, new detectives and new challenges will shape the future of crime fiction in Spain. With a growing fan base and a wealth of talent in the genre, Spanish crime literature is poised to make an even greater impact on the international literary scene.
