Why is Sir Simon angry with the Otis family in “a dreadful discovery”based on “The Canterville Ghost”by Oscar Wilde?
In Oscar Wilde's "The Canterville Ghost," Sir Simon is angry with the Otis family primarily because they do not respond to his haunting in the way he expects. As a ghost who has been haunting Canterville Chase for centuries, Sir Simon desires to instill fear in the inhabitants of the estate. However, when the Otis family, who are American and practical in their approach, move into the house, they react to his attempts at haunting with indifference and even humor.
For example, they suggest practical solutions to his ghostly problems, like offering him lubricating oil for his chains, which frustrates Sir Simon. His anger stems from a combination of feeling disrespected and being unable to fulfill his role as a traditional ghost. The Otis family's lightheartedness contrasts sharply with the sinister nature Sir Simon expects, leading him to feel both isolated and infuriated by their lack of fear. This clash between the respectful tradition of ghost stories and the pragmatic American attitude serves as a key theme in Wilde's story.