Horace Walpole
Horace Walpole was an English writer, art historian, man of letters, antiquarian, and Whig politician. He is best known for his Gothic novel 'The Castle of Otranto', which is often regarded as the first Gothic novel. Walpole's literary style was a blend of the medieval revival and elements of the macabre. He was also known for his correspondence, which provides a valuable historical resource. Born on September 24, 1717, Walpole was the son of the first British Prime Minister, Sir Robert Walpole. In addition to his literary work, he had a significant influence on the Gothic revival in architecture and interior design, exemplified by his home, Strawberry Hill House.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. The Castle of Otranto: A Gothic Story
"The Castle of Otranto: A Gothic Story" is a novel set in a medieval Italian castle and is considered the first gothic novel. The story revolves around the tyrannical Prince Manfred, who is determined to secure his family's reign in Otranto, despite the fact that his sickly son is killed by a giant helmet on his wedding day. The novel is filled with supernatural elements, including moving portraits, a bleeding statue, and a ghostly knight, as Manfred desperately tries to marry his late son's bride, leading to a series of tragic events. The novel is known for its exploration of the conflict between medieval and renaissance values, and its influence on the gothic literature genre.
