Pragmatic adaptation in detective fiction

Abstract

This article deals with the concept of pragmatic adaptation
within the genre of detective fiction, examining how this adaptive
approach ensures the genre’s continued relevance and resonance amidst
evolving social norms, reader expectations, and technological advancements.
The paper explores how detective fiction reflects changing social
values by integrating sensitive topics, gender roles, diversity, and
cultural representation into narratives without sacrificing intrigue.
It highlights the shift in reader expectations from traditional indifferent
detectives to complex, relatable protagonists who navigate personal
struggles while solving mysteries.
The article also investigates the incorporation of technology,
demonstrating how pragmatic adaptation successfully blends modern
tools with traditional investigative methods to enhance storytelling.
Through case studies such as Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes
series, the paper illustrates how pragmatic adaptation maintains core
genre elements while embracing contemporary nuances