The Canterville Ghost
Book Review
The Canterville Ghost by Oscar Wilde is a brilliant example of satirical prose, where the author masterfully combines elements of Gothic romance and comedy of manners. Critics note that Wilde uses the ghost as a symbol of the clash between old and new worldviews: the aristocratic British tradition and the pragmatic American spirit. The plot, in which the American Otis family buys an ancient English estate with a ghost, allows Wilde to mock the prejudices and stereotypes of both cultures. The ghost, unable to scare modern people, becomes an embodiment of outdated traditions unable to withstand the onslaught of progress. Critics also highlight the author's subtle humor and ironic style, which make the work not only entertaining but also profound in meaning.
