The Canterville Ghost

“The Canterville Ghost” begins with the sale of an old British mansion called Canterville Chase to Horace B. Otis, an American minister. Though the former owner, Lord Canterville, warns Mr. Otis that the mansion is haunted, Mr. Otis is not worried and replies that ghosts do not exist..."The Canterville Ghost” is a comical story that highlights the differences in British and American cultures during the nineteenth century. Oscar Wilde uses the story to critique both cultures. More telling, given the story’s ending and that the events are closely placed within the historical context of conflicting views and several wars, the overall theme of forgiveness reads surprisingly fresh, even in today’s time. Ironically, Wilde’s story was received in his day with little fanfare. Though he began its publication serially in 1887, it would not be until Wilde’s now-famous novel "The Picture of Dorian Gray" was published in 1891 that Wilde would begin his long-lasting critical acclaim as a notable writer and thinker.

About the Author

Wilde, Oscar O'Flaherty (1856-1900). -- Poet and dramatist, s. of Sir William W., the eminent surgeon, was b. at Dublin, and ed. there at Trinity Coll. and at Oxf. He was one of the founders of the modern cult of the aesthetic. Among his writings are Poems (1881), The Picture of Dorian Gray, a novel, and several plays, including Lady Windermere's Fan, A Woman of no Importance, and The Importance of being Earnest. He was convicted of a serious offence, and after his release from prison went abroad and d. at Paris. Coll. ed. of his works, 12 vols., 1909."

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