Moch. Naufal S.

03040321112
In The Monogram Murders, Sophie Hannah presents a narrative that challenges the
traditional structure of detective fiction. While Agatha Christie's original Poirot
novels followed a linear narrative with a clear resolution at the end, Hannah's novel
disrupts this pattern. The story incorporates multiple suspects, contradictory
testimonies, and complex plot twists that undermine the reader's ability to discern
the truth. By doing so, Hannah deconstructs the idea of a single, objective truth and
instead presents a fragmented and subjective reality.
Furthermore, postmodernism often highlights the role of language in constructing
reality. In The Monogram Murders, language plays a significant role in shaping
perceptions and narratives. Poirot, known for his analytical abilities and linguistic
prowess, unravels the mystery through close examination of language, dialogue,
and clues hidden in words. This emphasis on language reinforces the postmodern
notion that meaning is constructed and influenced by language, and that multiple
interpretations and narratives can coexist.
In an article written by Groenewald (2019), The Monogram Murders is reviewed
using the scope of Russian formalism. Russian formalism also emphasizes the
formal devices used by authors and their impact on the reader. The Monogram
Murders employs various formal techniques to enhance the narrative experience.
For example, the novel employs intricate plot structures, including red herrings,
multiple suspects, and unexpected revelations, which generate suspense and keep
readers engaged. The intricate use of language, dialogues, and clues adds depth to
the narrative and creates a sense of intellectual puzzle-solving, a hallmark of
formalist analysis.
Furthermore, Russian formalism focuses on the author as a skilled craftsman,
highlighting their conscious choices and creative techniques. In The Monogram
Murders, Sophie Hannah showcases her expertise in crafting a detective story. She
meticulously constructs the plot, develops complex characters, and strategically
places clues and misdirections throughout the narrative. By foregrounding the
author's craft, the novel aligns with the formalist notion that literature is a product
of deliberate artistic choices and techniques.
Additionally, postmodernism often incorporates intertextuality, referencing and
reimagining existing texts. The Monogram Murders, as a continuation of Agatha
Christie's Poirot series, engages in intertextual dialogue with the original works.
Hannah both pays homage to Christie's style and themes while also subverting
them. This intertextual play disrupts the notion of a fixed and authoritative
narrative, adding layers of complexity to the story.
Overall, through its subversion of traditional detective fiction tropes, exploration of
multiple narratives and subjective truths, emphasis on language, and engagement
in intertextuality, The Monogram Murders can be analyzed through the lens of
postmodernism theory. It challenges the reader's expectations, disrupts established
narratives, and presents a fragmented and subjective reality, reflecting the core
ideas of postmodernism.
The Monogram Murders can also be analyzed through the lens of Russian
formalism theory. The novel defamiliarizes the detective genre, employs formal
devices to create a unique reading experience, and emphasizes the author's
craftsmanship. By exploring these elements, we gain insight into how Sophie
Hannah's narrative choices and artistic techniques contribute to the novel's overall
impact and engage readers in a thoughtful and analytical manner.