73 pages • 2 hours read
The Castle of Otranto
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Book Brief
125
Novel • Fiction
Italy • Medieval Times
1764
Adult
14+ years
Super Short Summary
The Castle of Otranto, by Horace Walpole, follows the power-hungry Manfred, Prince of Otranto, who goes to extreme lengths to defy an ancient prophecy threatening his family's hold over the castle. After his son is mysteriously killed, Manfred attempts to marry his son's betrothed, Isabella, resulting in a series of supernatural events and dramatic revelations that ultimately fulfill the prophecy.
Mysterious
Dark
Fantastical
Suspenseful
Romantic
Reviews & Readership
38,577 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Castle of Otranto by Horace Walpole is praised for its pioneering role in the gothic novel genre, with a gripping atmosphere and strong influence on later literature. However, some find its melodramatic plot and dated prose challenging. Overall, it remains a significant, if polarizing, work for fans of gothic fiction.
Who Should Read The Castle of Otranto?
Readers with a penchant for Gothic fiction, atmospheric settings, and supernatural elements will enjoy The Castle of Otranto by Horace Walpole. Fans of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein and Bram Stoker's Dracula will appreciate its pioneering role in the genre, blending medieval and romantic elements with eerie, haunting intrigue.
38,577 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Hippolita
Hippolita
Manfred's compassionate and pious wife who is submissive to her husband's demands.
Matilda
Matilda
The religious and compassionate teenage daughter of Manfred and Hippolita.
Isabella
Isabella
The daughter of the Marquis of Vincenza and fiancée of Manfred’s late son, Conrad, who later becomes a central figure in a marriage alliance.
Father Jerome
Father Jerome
A friar who provides sanctuary and guidance, playing a spiritual and protective role in the story.
Theodore
Theodore
A young man resembling a former rightful ruler, whose true heritage unfolds as the story progresses, influencing the fate of Otranto.
Frederic
Frederic
The Marquis of Vincenza and father of Isabella, whose arrival and decisions impact the events surrounding Otranto's rulership.
125
Novel • Fiction
Italy • Medieval Times
1764
Adult
14+ years
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