The Night the Ghost Got In

What point does Thurber make about the subjectivity of truth? Ultimately, does he believe that Truth Is Subjective or objective? Does the possibility of truth’s subjectivity problematize the coexistence of multiple truths in the story? Why or why not?

Teaching Suggestion: This Discussion/Analysis Prompt invites students to connect the response from their Personal Connection Prompt with Thurber’s story. Ultimately, Thurber’s story suggests that a plurality of truths can coexist under a single (literal) roof. Each character’s “truth” is acknowledged and accepted as plausible, and none of the characters seek supremacy for their competing theories. Although the story appears to advocate for the existence of the ghost (it is mentioned in the story’s title), the narrator does not correct his mother when she automatically assumes the disruption was caused by a burglar or when her presumed burglar later becomes several burglars in her report to the police. Additionally, no one attempts to correct grandfather after his attack; they close his door and talk amongst themselves without challenging his truth. This Prompt works well as either an in-class discussion or a take-home assignment.