The Canterville Ghost is set in the English countryside in the late 19th century. Most of the story takes place in Canterville Chase, which is described as an old mansion with secret rooms and passageways, long corridors stained glass windows, and oak paneling. Pictures of long-dead Canterville ancestors, ancient tapestries, and a suit of armor add to the medieval-like setting. Overall, it seems to fit the stereotype of a haunted house.
The book follows fairy tale conventions and Wilde introduces Virginia Otis, a fairy-tale type heroine. Otis must believe that there is a soul worth saving in the murderous and grisly Sir Simon. Her actions, however, lead to a happy ending. Otis marries a Duke and receives a casket of valuable jewels from the Ghost.