#10 Irene Adler
When discussing classic literary characters, few are as enduring as those from Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes stories. Among the many faces that appear in Holmes’ adventures, Irene Adler stands out as one of the most memorable female characters. Introduced in the short story A Scandal in Bohemia, Irene’s role is brief, yet her intelligence, cunning, and poise left an indelible mark on the Holmes universe.
Unlike later adaptations that often portray her as a romantic interest, the original Irene earned Holmes’ respect for her brilliance, resourcefulness, and ability to outwit him, creating a rare dynamic of mutual admiration. Over the years, she has appeared in various adaptations, sometimes as a love interest, but always as a formidable and independent woman. In the 2009 film adaptation starring Robert Downey Jr., Rachel McAdams brought Irene to life, portraying her as both a worthy adversary and an equal match for Holmes’ intellect. Her presence continues to influence modern interpretations of strong female characters in detective fiction.