# The Psychology of Murder in Murder by the Clock

> Theme guide for Murder by the Clock by Rufus King.

The book delves into the psychological motivations behind murder, including jealousy, fear, and a desire for power, as seen in Mrs. Endicott's complex relationship with her husband and Roberts's near-homicidal rage.

## Where it surfaces

- [VI: 10:32 p.m.—Pictures in Dust](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/murder_by_the_clock_se/chapters/vi-10-32-p-m-pictures-in-dust): Valcour's deduction about the attacker's actions and use of dust reveals a calculated and psychological approach to the crime.
- [IX: 11:55 p.m.—Queer Deeps](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/murder_by_the_clock_se/chapters/ix-11-55-p-m-queer-deeps): Valcour's introspective thoughts on the 'kaleidoscopic overtones' of crime in higher social strata highlight the psychological complexity he faces in this case.
- [XV: 2:13 a.m.—The Thin Steel Blade](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/murder_by_the_clock_se/chapters/xv-2-13-a-m-the-thin-steel-blade): Hollander's calm exterior masks his deadly intent, as he secretly prepares a blade while appearing composed.
- [XVI: 2:13 a.m.—Time Versus Death](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/murder_by_the_clock_se/chapters/xvi-2-13-a-m-time-versus-death): Hollander's calm and deliberate attempt to stab Endicott, despite being under police surveillance, reveals a calculated and cold-blooded mindset.
- [XVII: 2:40 a.m.—The Angle of Death’s Path](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/murder_by_the_clock_se/chapters/xvii-2-40-a-m-the-angle-of-death-s-path): The chapter explores the confusion and psychological loops of the guards as they try to reconcile the impossible shooting, highlighting the murderer's cunning.
- [XIX: 3:15 a.m.—The Properties of Horror](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/murder_by_the_clock_se/chapters/xix-3-15-a-m-the-properties-of-horror): Valcour discusses the mindset of a murderer, driven by fear of discovery and the potential to kill again.
- [XXX: 7:11 a.m.—The Criminal and Weapon of the Crime](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/murder_by_the_clock_se/chapters/xxx-7-11-a-m-the-criminal-and-weapon-of-the-crime): Marge Myles's calm and calculated demeanor, her enjoyment of power, and her willingness to kill for escape highlight the psychological aspects of murder.

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/murder_by_the_clock_se/themes/the_psychology_of_murder
- Themes index: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/murder_by_the_clock_se/themes