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The Castle of Otranto

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1764

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Book Brief

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Horace Walpole

The Castle of Otranto

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1764
Book Details
Pages

125

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Italy • Medieval Times

Publication Year

1764

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14+ years

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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

3.5

38,577 ratings

37%

Loved it

41%

Mixed feelings

22%

Not a fan

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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 this

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.

3.5

38,577 ratings

37%

Loved it

41%

Mixed feelings

22%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

125

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Italy • Medieval Times

Publication Year

1764

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14+ years

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