Lord Arthur Savile's Crime and Other Stories ebook

Lord Arthur Savile's Crime and Other Stories is a sparkling collection of short fiction that showcases Oscar Wilde's unmatched wit, irony, and satirical brilliance. First published in 1891, these stories reveal Wilde at his most playful and incisive, blending humor with sharp social commentary and a keen understanding of human vanity, morality, and hypocrisy. The collection includes some of Wilde's most celebrated tales, such as "Lord Arthur Savile's Crime," "The Canterville Ghost," "The Sphinx Without a Secret," "The Model Millionaire," and "The Portrait of Mr. W. H." Each story explores the absurdities of Victorian society, often turning conventional moral expectations upside down. With elegant prose and clever plotting, Wilde exposes the follies of aristocracy, the pretensions of respectability, and the curious ways people justify their actions. At the heart of these stories lies Wilde's fascination with fate, identity, and the tension between appearance and reality. Whether following a man determined to commit murder out of a misplaced sense of duty, a ghost tormented by modern Americans, or a mystery built on aesthetic obsession, Wilde delights in subverting expectations while offering subtle philosophical insight. Though humorous and entertaining, these stories are far from trivial. Beneath their lightness lies a deeper critique of social norms, moral rigidity, and the contradictions of human behavior. Wilde's distinctive voice—witty, polished, and paradoxical—shines throughout, making each story both a pleasure to read and a subject for thoughtful reflection. Lord Arthur Savile's Crime and Other Stories is an essential collection for readers who enjoy classic short stories, satirical fiction, and literary masterpieces. Timeless in its themes and irresistibly clever in its execution, this book stands as a testament to Oscar Wilde's enduring genius and his ability to combine laughter with lasting insight.