The intricate world of whodunits often hinges on a pivotal character, the very essence of intrigue and suspicion. This classic setup, where a crime demands resolution and a cast of characters become potential culprits, is a goldmine for those crafting a clever crossword clue. The phrase “Suspect in many whodunits” immediately brings to mind a familiar archetype, a character so entrenched in the fabric of mystery literature that they almost have their own spotlight.
Unpacking a common crossword clue like this requires more than just a quick glance. It delves into the conventions of a genre that has captivated readers and viewers for centuries. Think about the classic British manor house mysteries, the closed-circle scenarios, or the sprawling, complex narratives spun by masters of the form. In these tales, a central figure emerges, often someone seemingly innocuous or deeply intertwined with the victim’s life. Their presence isn’t just coincidental; it’s a structural necessity, providing motive, opportunity, and often, a convenient red herring.
When presented with such a pointed crossword clue, the seasoned solver instinctively considers the roles that frequently populate these dramatic narratives. Is it the unexpected heir, the disgruntled employee, the jilted lover, or perhaps someone even closer to the heart of the home? Authors like Agatha Christie, Arthur Conan Doyle, and Dorothy L. Sayers perfected the art of placing suspicion upon various members of a confined group, ensuring that the reader’s gaze darted from one possibility to another before the ultimate reveal. The beauty of this particular crossword clue lies in its ability to evoke that entire gallery of potential wrongdoers.
The archetypal “suspect in many whodunits” is crucial to the plot’s momentum. They are the character designed to draw the detective’s (and the audience’s) attention, often holding back secrets that, while not directly related to the crime, add layers of complexity and misdirection. This technique is a cornerstone of the whodunit, ensuring that the path to the truth is never straightforward. A well-crafted mystery will parade multiple such individuals before the final, shocking revelation.
Identifying the specific solution to this particular crossword clue involves recognizing a pattern, a recurring trope that transcends individual stories to become a genre standard. It’s about looking beyond the individual traits of a character and pinpointing their
role
within the domestic or social sphere of the mystery. This common crossword clue doesn’t ask for a specific person from a specific book, but rather a universal representation of the very concept of suspicion within a confined, dramatic setting.
Solving any challenging crossword clue often hinges on this kind of associative thinking. Rather than hunting for obscure words, the trick is to connect the clue to a broader cultural reference, a well-known saying, or a common literary device. For “Suspect in many whodunits,” the answer isn’t just a word; it’s an entire narrative function, a character often found lurking in the shadows of motive, opportunity, and circumstance. It’s a reminder that even the most seemingly innocent figures can harbor the darkest secrets, making them prime candidates for this most classic of crossword clues.
This recurring character provides fertile ground for detective work, both for the fictional sleuths within the story and for the real-world crossword solver. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of the mystery genre and its ability to continually offer compelling and memorable answers to a daily crossword clue.
Available Answers:
HEIR.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Universal Crossword – Universal Freestyle 183 By Zachary Edward-Brown