About this book
Dorothy Scarborough's *Humorous Ghost Stories* proves that the supernatural doesn't always have to terrify—sometimes it delights. This delightful anthology brings together twenty witty tales from literary masters including Oscar Wilde, Washington Irving, Frank R. Stockton, and Théophile Gautier, each offering a refreshingly comedic twist on the ghost story tradition.
Unlike the solemn specters of earlier literature, these ghosts bungle their hauntings, fall in love at the worst moments, or simply prove too absurd to inspire genuine fear. From Oscar Wilde's mischievous Canterville Ghost to John Kendrick Bangs' water spirit that disrupts a proper English household, each story mines humor from the collision between supernatural forces and everyday human life. The collection spans various comic styles—from clever wordplay to slapstick mishaps—showcasing the range of wit available to authors tackling paranormal themes.
Scarborough, a Columbia University lecturer and expert on supernatural fiction, curated these stories to demonstrate how humor emerged as a distinctly modern approach to ghostly narratives. Her insightful introduction traces this literary evolution, explaining why the humorous ghost became a beloved fixture in contemporary literature.
Perfect for listeners seeking entertainment that's equal parts spooky and silly, this audiobook offers an escape into a world where phantoms are more likely to amuse than alarm. Whether you're a longtime fan of ghost stories or simply enjoy clever humor wrapped in supernatural packaging, these timeless tales deliver laughs alongside light chills.
