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  • Published: 2 November 2001
  • ISBN: 9780140437676
  • Imprint: Penguin Classics
  • Format: Paperback
  • Pages: 208
  • RRP: $14.99

The Castle of Otranto




The original Gothic novel

On the day of his wedding, Conrad, heir to the house of Otranto, is killed in mysterious circumstances. His calculating father Manfred fears that his dynasty will now come to an end and determines to marry his son's bride himself - despite the fact he is already married. But a series of terrifying supernatural omens soon threaten this unlawful union, as the curse placed on Manfred's ancestor, who usurped the lawful Prince of Otranto, begins to unfold. First published pseudonymously in 1764, purporting to be an ancient Italian text from the time of the crusades, The Castle of Otranto is a founding work of Gothic fiction. With its compelling blend of sinister portents, tempestuous passions and ghostly visitations, it spawned an entire literary tradition and influenced such writers as Ann Radcliffe and Bram Stoker.

  • Published: 2 November 2001
  • ISBN: 9780140437676
  • Imprint: Penguin Classics
  • Format: Paperback
  • Pages: 208
  • RRP: $14.99

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About the author

Horace Walpole

Horatio Walpole, 4th Earl of Orford, also known as Horace Walpole, was an English writer, art historian, man of letters, antiquarian and Whig politician. He had Strawberry Hill House built in Twickenham, south-west London, reviving the Gothic style some decades before his Victorian successors

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