"As I wrote the last period, I knew this would be a perfect murder."
—If Agatha Christie were still alive, she might describe her creative process this way. Now, the BBC has turned this "if" into reality!
Recently, the BBC launched a major AI course series, Maestro, using artificial intelligence technology to "resurrect" the Queen of Detective Fiction, Agatha Christie, allowing her to personally teach 11 masterclasses on suspense writing in digital form. An AI-generated Agatha Christie, using her iconic British accent, explains how to conceive a perfect murder, lay out clever clues, and create unforgettable detective characters... the scene itself is full of suspense!
In literary history, Agatha Christie (1890-1976) is an irreplaceable legend. The Queen of Detective Fiction, who wrote classics like "Murder on the Orient Express" and "And Then There Were None," defined the standard for modern suspense novels with her exquisite plotting, meticulous logic, and breathtaking endings. Her works have sold over 2 billion copies, been translated into more than 100 languages, and adapted into countless films, TV shows, and stage plays.
"Agatha taught the world how to tell a good suspense story," contemporary suspense master Stephen King once commented. Now, through AI technology, the new generation of writers can learn directly from the master.
The content of these 11 lessons is the "ultimate guide" to suspense writing. From how to design convincing motives, to how to use "red herrings" (misleading clues) to lead readers astray; from creating unforgettable detective characters like Poirot and Miss Marple, to generating suffocating tension in enclosed spaces (like the island in "And Then There Were None")—AI Agatha's explanations are not only based on her classic works but can also adjust teaching content in real-time based on students' questions. For example, when a student asks how to design an "impossible crime" in a modern technology environment, AI Agatha will combine her classic techniques with an analysis of how modern elements like surveillance cameras and digital footprints can be incorporated into suspense narratives.
This innovative attempt by the BBC has sparked widespread discussion. Emma Smith, Professor of Digital Humanities at Cambridge University, commented: "This opens up a new model for literary education. We are no longer just studying dead writers, but can 'converse' with them." Of course, such attempts also cause controversy. Some question whether letting AI simulate the thinking of a deceased author respects their legacy. However, Agatha's family members have expressed support, believing that this method allows a new generation of readers and writers to directly access her wisdom.
And for fans of suspense novels, this is undoubtedly a rare opportunity. Imagine being able to "hear" Agatha Christie explain firsthand why she chose that world-shocking narrative perspective in "The Murder of Roger Ackroyd," or how she drew inspiration from her pharmacist's knowledge to devise those intricate poisoning schemes. The course even includes interactive exercises, such as AI Agatha presenting a simple scenario and asking students to devise a twist ending within a limited time, then offering her点评 on the highlights and flaws.
Agatha passed away in 1976. Her image was synthesized by combining authorized images, limited footage, and past audio recordings. This data was blended with actress Vivien Keene, who would "perform" as Agatha in the video, with her face then replaced.
The project's technical director explained: "This isn't just a simple 'deepfake'; we are creating a digital tutor that can genuinely impart Agatha Christie's writing wisdom."
The BBC's innovation is not only a tribute to Agatha Christie but also demonstrates the potential of AI in education and cultural preservation. It makes us consider: Can technology allow the great minds of the past to continue their influence in new ways? When AI can simulate Shakespeare's poetry, Beethoven's composition style, or Einstein's scientific thinking, how will human learning change?
Regardless, this time, AI has not replaced humans but has become a bridge—connecting the past and the future, allowing legendary wisdom to endure. Perhaps, as Agatha Christie wrote in her autobiography: "The best stories never really end." And now, her story continues to be written in a different way.
The BBC Maestro series is now open for subscription. The AI Agatha course is priced at £199 (approximately 1800 RMB).
Would you be willing to learn suspense writing from this "AI Agatha"? Welcome to discuss in the comment section.