Most likely they are fictional. While the castle has a long and somewhat spooky history, there's no scientific evidence to prove the existence of ghosts. These stories are often passed down through generations as a way to add mystery and intrigue to the place.
One famous Oxford Castle ghost story is about the Lady in Grey. It's said she haunts the castle corridors. Legend has it she was a prisoner there long ago and her spirit remains. People claim to have seen a grey figure gliding through the old passageways, especially at night.
One interesting story might be about a haunted library. There could be a ghost of an old librarian who still lingers among the bookshelves, making strange noises at night.
I really like 'The Monkey's Paw' in it. It's a very well - known story. The idea of a magical paw that grants wishes but with a horrible twist is quite fascinating.
The collection could feature a mix of established authors and emerging writers. There might be some renowned names from the horror or mystery genre. It could also include some local or regional authors who have unique takes on ghost stories. However, without looking at the book specifically, it's hard to name them all.
There are tales of a ghost in the Bodleian Library. This ghost is often described as a figure in old - fashioned academic robes. It might be related to the many years of study and scholarship that have taken place there. It's as if the past still lingers in the form of this apparition. There are also reports of strange noises and cold spots in certain areas of the library, which add to the spooky atmosphere.
Well, many of the stories in the 'Oxford Book of English Ghost Stories' are set in old English villages or castles. One story that stands out is about a phantom rider that rides through the village every full moon. The villagers are terrified, and the way the story unfolds, with the build - up of suspense and the final revelation about the rider's identity, is really captivating.