Perry Mason

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Perry Mason is a fictional character, a criminal defense lawyer who is the main character in works of detective fiction written by Erle Stanley Gardner. Perry Mason is featured in more than 80 novels and short stories, most of which involve a client’s murder trial. Typically, Mason establishes his client's innocence by implicating another character, who then confesses.

Character

Perry Mason is a defense attorney who represents clients in criminal cases. He is known for his ability to solve complex cases and his dedication to his clients. Mason's character is portrayed as a highly skilled and ethical lawyer who often goes to great lengths to ensure justice is served.

Creation and Development

Perry Mason was created by Erle Stanley Gardner, a prolific author and lawyer. Gardner's experience as a lawyer influenced the creation of Mason, who first appeared in the 1933 novel The Case of the Velvet Claws. The character quickly became popular, leading to a long-running series of novels, radio shows, films, and television series.

Television Series

The most famous adaptation of Perry Mason is the television series that aired from 1957 to 1966, starring Raymond Burr as the titular character. The show was highly successful and is considered one of the best legal dramas in television history. It was revived in the 1980s and 1990s with a series of television movies, again starring Burr.

Supporting Characters

Perry Mason is often assisted by his loyal secretary Della Street and private investigator Paul Drake. The character of Hamilton Burger, the district attorney, frequently appears as Mason's courtroom adversary. Lieutenant Arthur Tragg is another recurring character, often involved in the investigation of the cases Mason handles.

Influence and Legacy

Perry Mason has had a significant impact on the legal drama genre and has influenced many subsequent works of fiction. The character's dedication to justice and his methodical approach to solving cases have made him an enduring figure in popular culture.

Related Pages

• Erle Stanley Gardner
• Perry Mason (TV series)
• Raymond Burr
• Della Street
• Paul Drake
• Hamilton Burger
• Lieutenant Arthur Tragg