The Canterville Ghost

Summary

"The Canterville Ghost" is a novella written by Oscar Wilde. First published in 1887, it is one of Wilde's earlier works and represents a departure from his more famous comedic plays and witty social commentary. Instead, "The Canterville Ghost" is a satirical ghost story that blends humor, romance, and a touch of the macabre. The story is set in Canterville Chase, an English country house, which becomes the residence of an American family, the Otises. The ghost of Sir Simon Canterville haunts the house, but instead of frightening the new occupants, the ghost finds himself confounded by the pragmatic and skeptical American family. The Otises, rather than being scared, respond to the ghost's attempts at haunting with amusement and practical jokes.
Virginia Otis, the young daughter of the family, takes a different approach. She is compassionate and tries to help Sir Simon find peace by resolving the issues that tie him to the earthly realm. As the story unfolds, it combines moments of comedy with a deeper exploration of themes like forgiveness, redemption, and the impact of American practicality on traditional British ghostly expectations. "The Canterville Ghost" showcases Wilde's ability to infuse a story with both humor and social commentary. The novella satirizes both British and American attitudes toward the supernatural and traditional ghost stories, providing a delightful and thought-provoking reading experience. Over the years, it has become one of Wilde's more enduring and accessible works, appreciated for its wit and imaginative storytelling.