A Serpent's Tooth Compare Contrast Essay

Craig Johnson’s novel A Serpent’s Tooth, is a unique approach to the detective fiction genre. In comparison to the novel The Ice Princess there is many differences, specifically between the two detectives and the variety of characters in both novels. Sheriff Longmire and Erika both have support throughout their stories from the other characters; however, Sheriff Longmire would be a boring and uncharismatic character if were not for the support of the other characters.

When discussing Longmire character, the five major characteristics that are obvious about him is that he is a male, an older gentleman, who is very observant, patient, and not judgmental. These characteristics make Longmire the detective he is. His name, his retiring of his high school jersey, and his relationship (professional and sexual) with Vic are the obvious examples of his physical characteristics which makes his character. A small example his thoughts about Vic. The narrator describes his attraction towards Vic by saying, “I ignored my undersheriff, which is difficult to do. She was wearing a summer dress in an attempt to forestall the season, and a marvelous portion of her tanned legs was revealed above her boots and below them” (3).

The three non-physical characteristics are needed to make up Longmire’s personality, which is how the reader sees his critical thinking strategy to the situations that are presented to him in the novel.

The first example is in the very beginning of the book and his encounter with Barbara Thomas. He asked Barbara, “So, when did the angels pitch in and start working around you, Mrs. Thomas?” (2). Any other detective in the other novels or T.V. shows would have not been so patient and non-judgmental as Longmire. He is not quick to jump to conclusion in comparison to someone like Luther, or is not using scientific reasoning to get the truth like

Galileo.
Another example in the book would be Longmire dealing with Mr. Rockwell. He knows he story that he claims to be a 200-year-old Mormon. He never really questions or judges the man. At one point begins to interview him, and while Rockwell goes on into detail of telling his story, Longmire just sits and listens. Even when Longmire discovers that Rockwell has a weapon the entire time he is calm and asks, “Mr. Rockwell do you have any other weapons on your person?” (126). His response is unusual. Other detectives or law enforcement would respond to a situation like that, which is what makes Longmire who he is.
In comparison to Erika in The Ice Princess, both Longmire and Erika need all the other characters in their stories in order to support the story and also the characters bring life to the main detectives. Between both detectives, they to find out the truth but Longmire’s morals are not like Erika’s. Erika wants to use the death of her old friend to write a novel. Longmire is following his duty as sheriff to get to the bottom of any situation without any personal gain. However, Erika could survive as a character with as little connection to the people in the story. Longmire would not have such a prominent role in this novel if it were not for the other characters like Vic, Henry Standing Bear, Cord, Rockwell, etc. Longmire would be a dull character. He only stands out because of all the other characters who are technically more interesting than himself.
A Serpent’s Tooth, is a unique approach to the detective fiction genre. When compared to the novel The Ice Princess there is many differences. Sheriff Longmire and Erika both have support throughout their stories from the other characters; however, Sheriff Longmire would be a boring and uncharismatic character.