Reviews of The Canterville Ghost by Oscar Wilde highlight its wit and humor, reflecting Wilde's signature style. Appreciated for its clever satire of both British and American cultures, the novella entertains while providing social commentary. Criticisms include a perceived shallow plot and lack of depth in character development. Overall, it remains a charming, light-hearted read.

Readers who relish witty satire, Gothic fiction, and a blend of humor and the supernatural will enjoy Oscar Wilde's The Canterville Ghost. Fans of The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson or A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens will find similar delightful themes and engaging storytelling.

In "The Canterville Ghost" by Oscar Wilde, the American Otis family moves into a British mansion haunted by the ghost of Sir Simon, who murdered his wife centuries ago. Despite the ghost's efforts to scare them, the pragmatic Otises, especially their eldest daughter Virginia, ultimately help Sir Simon find peace, demonstrating themes of forgiveness, love, and the reconciliation of different cultural values.

Humorous / Mysterious / Bittersweet / Fantastical / Nostalgic

Oscar Wilde

Adult

Novella

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore The Canterville Ghost and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Canterville Ghost Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapter 1 The Canterville Ghost Chapter 1 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 2 The Canterville Ghost Chapter 2 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 3 The Canterville Ghost Chapter 3 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 4 The Canterville Ghost Chapter 4 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 5 The Canterville Ghost Chapter 5 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 6 The Canterville Ghost Chapter 6 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 7 The Canterville Ghost Chapter 7 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Canterville Ghost Character Analysis

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Themes

The Canterville Ghost Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Canterville Ghost Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Canterville Ghost Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Canterville Ghost Essay Topics

The Canterville Ghost

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Canterville Ghost?

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Book Details