Lord Arthur Savile’s Crime and Other Stories
What is Lord Arthur Savile’s Crime and Other Stories about?
This collection of short “mystery” stories by Oscar Wilde was originally published in 1891 and was his second published collection of stories. This edition follows the 1907 edition, which was published after his death and added “The Portrait of Mr. W. H.,” a story first published in 1899. Written around the same time as The Picture of Dorian Gray and before he turned his hand to playwriting, these stories showcase the quintessential Wilde: dark irony combined with an incisive dissection of Victorian society, with just a hint of the supernatural added to amuse and engage his Victorian audience.
Main themes in Lord Arthur Savile’s Crime and Other Stories
Fate and free will
The presence of fate and free will in Lord Arthur Savile’s Crime and Other Stories connects readers to its enduring relevance.
Supernatural comedy
Lord Arthur Savile’s Crime and Other Stories thoughtfully explores supernatural comedy through its central conflicts.
English versus American
In Lord Arthur Savile’s Crime and Other Stories, english versus american provides a lens for understanding the story's core message.
Wealth and generosity
The theme of wealth and generosity weaves through Lord Arthur Savile’s Crime and Other Stories, adding depth to its narrative.
Why Lord Arthur Savile’s Crime and Other Stories is still relevant today
Lord Arthur Savile's Crime and Other Stories demonstrates Wilde's mastery of the short story form. "The Canterville Ghost" has become a beloved classic, adapted numerous times for film and television, its comic clash of English tradition and American practicality remaining delightful. The stories offer an accessible introduction to Wilde's wit and imagination, combining the supernatural, the satirical, and the sentimental in characteristic fashion.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lord Arthur Savile's Crime about?
The title story follows an aristocrat who learns from a palm reader that he's destined to commit murder. Determined to get it over with before his wedding, his attempts at murder become darkly comic.
What is 'The Canterville Ghost' about?
An American family buys a haunted English manor. The ghost tries to frighten them but the practical Americans refuse to be scared, leading to comedy and ultimately redemption.
Are these stories funny?
Yes, the stories blend wit, supernatural elements, and social satire in Wilde's characteristic style. They range from dark comedy to sentimental fable, all delivered with sparkling prose.
How do these compare to Wilde's plays?
The stories are lighter and shorter than the plays but showcase the same wit and social observation. They make an excellent introduction to Wilde's prose style.
Is 'The Canterville Ghost' a children's story?
While often adapted for children, the original story is sophisticated satire aimed at adults, mocking both English tradition and American materialism while delivering a touching ghost story.