The Otis Family: Americans in England
Hiram B. Otis
Hiram B. Otis is the pragmatic and confident American Minister who arrives at Canterville Chase with his family. He epitomizes the American spirit of practicality and skepticism, often dismissing traditional notions of ghosts and supernatural phenomena. Hiram is characterized by his straightforwardness, sense of humor, and desire to modernize the estate, which he views as a symbol of old-world superstition. His pragmatic approach often clashes with the ghost’s eerie presence, setting the tone for much of the story’s comedic elements.
Lucretia Otis
Lucretia Otis, Hiram’s wife, is portrayed as a wise and nurturing woman. She exhibits a gentle and compassionate nature, especially toward her children and even the ghost. Her open-mindedness and kindness serve as a contrast to her husband’s skepticism and the traditional Victorian fears. Lucretia often mediates between the different characters and provides emotional support, embodying Wilde’s theme that love and kindness can transcend fear and superstition.
The Otis Children
The Otis children are lively, curious, and sometimes mischievous. Their personalities include:
- Virginia Otis: The youngest daughter, Virginia is compassionate, brave, and pure-hearted. Her innocence and kindness play a crucial role in the story’s resolution, as she ultimately helps the ghost find peace.
- Washington Otis: The eldest son, Washington is confident and skeptical. He initially mocks the ghost and tries to rid the house of supernatural fears with practical solutions.
- George Otis: Middle child, known for his playful and adventurous spirit. He shares his brother’s skepticism but is also easily frightened by the ghost’s appearances.
The Otis family, with their American practicality and humorous approach, serve as a foil to the Victorian setting’s traditional fears and superstitions.
The Canterville Ghost: Sir Simon
Sir Simon de Canterville
Sir Simon is the titular ghost, who haunts Canterville Chase as a centuries-old spirit. Wilde’s depiction of Sir Simon is both humorous and tragic, challenging the traditional image of ghostly terror. He is portrayed as a remorseful and lonely figure, burdened by his past sins and cursed to haunt the estate. His appearance is often comic, with his ghostly antics and attempts to frighten the family often backfiring.
Sir Simon’s character is complex, embodying themes of guilt, redemption, and the possibility of forgiveness. His interactions with Virginia Otis are pivotal, as she shows him compassion and helps him find peace—an act that Wilde suggests is more powerful than any traditional ghostly fright.
The Ghost’s Transformation
Throughout the story, Sir Simon evolves from a figure of fear to one of empathy and understanding. Initially, he seeks revenge and to frighten the family, but as Virginia shows him kindness, he begins to regret his past actions. His plea for forgiveness and his eventual peaceful death symbolize redemption and the triumph of compassion over fear.
Supporting Characters and Their Roles
The Reverend Augustus Fitz-Howard
Reverend Augustus is the local clergyman who is called upon to exorcise the ghost. His character is portrayed with a humorous touch, as he is somewhat ineffectual and superstitious himself. His attempts to banish Sir Simon are comic, highlighting Wilde’s satire of Victorian religious practices and superstitions.
The Maid and Servants
The household staff plays minor but amusing roles, often reacting with fear or skepticism to the ghost’s antics. Their reactions serve to emphasize the contrast between the rational, pragmatic Otis family and the superstitious Victorian servants.
The Other Visitors
Various characters, including detectives and exorcists, appear briefly, illustrating the widespread Victorian fascination with ghosts and the supernatural. Wilde uses these characters to poke fun at the era’s obsession with the supernatural and the often humorous attempts to rid houses of spirits.
Thematic Significance of the Characters
Contrast Between American and Victorian Values
The Otis family’s pragmatic, modern approach sharply contrasts with the Victorian-era fears and superstitions embodied by the ghost and traditional characters like Reverend Fitz-Howard. Wilde uses this contrast to critique Victorian society and highlight the progressive, rational outlook of the Americans.
Redemption and Compassion
Virginia Otis’s compassionate interaction with Sir Simon demonstrates Wilde’s belief in kindness and understanding as means of resolving conflicts and healing wounds. The characters’ development underscores the story’s moral that love and compassion are more powerful than superstition or fear.
Humor and Satire
Many characters, especially the ghost and Reverend Fitz-Howard, are portrayed with humor, serving as Wilde’s satirical critique of Victorian society’s obsession with the supernatural, religion, and social pretensions.
Conclusion
The characters in The Canterville Ghost are more than mere figures in a spooky tale; they embody themes of skepticism, kindness, redemption, and social critique. From the pragmatic Otis family to the remorseful ghost Sir Simon, each character plays a vital role in weaving a story that is both humorous and thought-provoking. Wilde’s masterful characterizations ensure that the novella remains a beloved classic, offering timeless insights into human nature and societal values. Whether you admire Virginia’s compassion, laugh at Washington’s bravado, or reflect on Sir Simon’s tragic remorse, the characters in The Canterville Ghost continue to resonate with readers, making Wilde’s story a lasting masterpiece.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Sir Simon in 'The Canterville Ghost'?
Sir Simon is the main ghost haunting Canterville Chase; he was a nobleman who was cursed and became a ghost seeking redemption.
What is the character of Virginia Otis in the story?
Virginia Otis is the kind and compassionate daughter of the Otis family, who shows empathy towards the ghost and helps him find peace.
How does Mr. Hiram B. Otis contribute to the story?
Mr. Otis is the pragmatic American minister who moves his family to Canterville and initially dismisses the ghost, setting the humorous tone of the story.
What role does the Otis family play in the story's development?
The Otis family, especially Virginia, interact with the ghost, challenging traditional ghost stories and bringing a modern, humorous perspective.
Who is the Duke of Cheshire, and what is his significance?
The Duke of Cheshire is a historical figure associated with the ghost's past; his story provides background on Sir Simon's curse.
How is the character of the Reverend Augustus in the story portrayed?
Reverend Augustus is a clergyman who attempts to exorcise the ghost, representing the traditional religious approach to haunting.
What is the character arc of Sir Simon in 'The Canterville Ghost'?
Sir Simon's character transforms from a vengeful, restless spirit to one seeking forgiveness and peace, helped by Virginia's kindness.
How does the story portray the Otis family's attitude towards supernatural elements?
The Otis family approaches the ghost with skepticism and humor, contrasting with traditional fears and highlighting a modern, pragmatic view.
