Lord Arthur Savile’s Crime and Other Stories · Question
How does Lord Arthur Savile’s Crime and Other Stories develop the theme of The Supernatural and the Rational?
Answer
Lord Arthur Savile’s Crime and Other Stories by Oscar Wilde develops The Supernatural and the Rational across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
The clash between supernatural beliefs (palmistry, ghosts) and rational, practical responses is central, as seen in Lord Arthur's literal interpretation of a prophecy and Mr. Otis's scientific approach to the Canterville ghost.
Mr. Otis's rational American pragmatism clashes with the haunted history of Canterville Chase.
The Ghost's supernatural existence is contrasted with Virginia's rational, compassionate approach to his plight.
The rational search for Virginia contrasts with the supernatural revelation of the ghost's skeleton and forgiveness.
Evidence in the book
- I
Mr. Otis's rational American pragmatism clashes with the haunted history of Canterville Chase.
- V
The Ghost's supernatural existence is contrasted with Virginia's rational, compassionate approach to his plight.
- Chapter VI
The rational search for Virginia contrasts with the supernatural revelation of the ghost's skeleton and forgiveness.
- VII
The ghost's funeral and Virginia's secret knowledge of life and death blend supernatural elements with rational acceptance.
