To sum up, both Sherlock Holmes and James Bond represent national identity in the novels, as well as the modern adaptations, in various ways. Both literary characters start out as a defence of the crumbling British Empire and as compensation for the resulting uncertainty in a new global and political context. Sherlock Holmes represents British supremacy as an emotionally detached, rational genius detective in the late Victorian era at the beginning of the end of the Empire, whereas James Bond represents the strong, proactive super-spy after the Empire has already fallen. However, James Bond takes the portrayal of national identity a step further and also addresses regional issues of identity and demonstrates the complexity of British national identity, which is often falsely associated with English identity, and neglects for instance Scottish identity. Thus, James Bond seems to represent a more differentiated idea of British identity in contrast to Sherlock Holmes who reflects the idea of predominantly English identity in the novels.
This changes in the 21st century adaptations, as the characters undergo a transformation caused by economical, socio-political and historical reasons. Sherlock Holmes, for instance, transforms into a much more approachable and multi-dimensional character who often struggles to find his place in society. Additionally, topics concerning gender, sexuality and multi-culturalism are added to the modern Sherlock Holmes adaptations which pick up on contemporary issues and further transform the former Victorian icon into a modern one. Similarly, the latest portrayals of James Bond have shown a transformation due to socio-political changes throughout history. Even though James Bond’s representation is heavily dependent on the actor, the whole concept contributes to the idea of James Bond’s complexity of British national and regional identity.
Holmes and Bond are not exclusively English anymore, but British icons, and, even more so, – global phenomenons. Consequently, this reflects the demands of today’s multicultural audience as well as the contemporary discourse about national British identity.
British Identities 