What is the Difference Between British and American Crime Fiction?

There are several key differences between British and American crime fiction, which can be attributed to various factors such as setting, detective figures, and themes. Some of the main differences include:

1. Setting: British crime fiction is typically set in rural or semi-rural areas, while American crime fiction often takes place in modern cities.
2. Detective Figures: In British crime fiction, cases are frequently investigated by professional policemen, whereas in American crime fiction, the detective is often a private investigator. For example, Mickey Spillane's Mike Hammer is a tough, insensitive, and overly masculine private investigator who solves crimes with a pistol and his fists, rather than through deduction or logic.
3. Themes and Tone: British crime fiction tends to focus on the investigation of a single murder or crime, often in a quiet and scenic setting. In contrast, American crime fiction often features multiple corpses, brutal murders, and a more fast-paced and violent tone. American crime fiction also tends to involve more action, such as car chases and shootouts, while British crime fiction typically focuses on clues and deduction.
4. Moral Complexity: American crime fiction often delves into moral complexity and blue-collar sympathy, while British crime fiction is designed to maintain stability and preserve the status quo.

In summary, British crime fiction is often characterized by its rural settings, professional detectives, and focus on clue-based deduction, while American crime fiction typically features urban settings, private investigators, and a more action-packed and violent tone.

Comparative Table: British vs American Crime Fiction

Here is a table comparing the differences between British and American crime fiction:

British crime fiction often features a single murder, usually in a rural or semi-rural setting, and is resolved through careful investigation and the unraveling of clues. American crime fiction, on the other hand, tends to have multiple victims, violence, and action, with plots centered around modern cities. The detectives in British crime fiction are often professional policemen, whereas American crime fiction typically features private investigators.