by Horace Walpole. Widely acknowledged as the first novel of it’s kind, Walpole establishes many of the elements we consider standard in Gothic and horror stories of today. And, like so many 18th Century novels, the drama revolves around death, inheritance, God and love. Don’t be deceived by its brevity; this book packs a lot into a small package.
This first set of questions is designed to help you think through what you're reading as you read the book. The second set of questions are larger, more thought-provoking questions to read once you have completed The Castle of Otranto.
Reading Questions:
1) Although Manfred’s character may feel a little clichéd, remember that he was the original in a long line of Gothic tyrants. What about him seems familiar? In other words, what have others copied or drawn from his character?
2) What do you think Manfred’s obsession over Conrad’s death will lead to? What leads you to this prediction?
3) Isabella becomes the object of much attention. What do you think about Manfred’s behavior after Conrad’s death? Do you think him a complete monster or do you feel any sympathy for his character?
4) There are many rumors about the imposter, Theodore, who happened to appear at the wrong place at the wrong time. Who do you think he really is and what clues have led you in that direction? Pay attention to things like his character, when and where he appears, and how he interacts with other characters.
5) All authors create a “story world” for their readers with it’s own set of rules and definitions of what is “normal.” In Otranto, Walpole has made giant armor fall from the sky and, although the characters are very uneasy about this, we are to accept it as plausible. What do you make of this strange occurrence? Why do you think it affects Manfred more than the other characters and what do you think will be revealed about the mysterious helmet?
6) In chapter three, Matilda tells Theodore to “fly to the sanctuary. – To sanctuary! said Theodore: No, princess; sanctuaries are for helpless damsels, or for criminals. Theodore’s soul is free from guilt, nor will wear the appearances of it” (Walpole 65). What does this statement tell us about what a hero is and does?
7) What is the role of the church (think about Father Jerome) in this book? What might that say about Walpole’s thoughts on religion, church, salvation and the safety it provides?
8) Discuss the ending of the book and the fate of the characters. Did it end how you expected? Why do you think certain characters survived while others did not?
Larger Discussion Questions:
1) This is considered the first Gothic novel and it sets the standards for the genre. Before you read this, talk about what things you expect to find in a modern horror/thriller, such as ghosts, damsels in distress, etc. Then, take not of how many you find in Otranto.
2) Think about the roles that servants played in Otranto. Manfred treated all unfairly, although the women seemed to treat their ladies with more decorum. What can we learn about 18th Century households through their interactions? Who really holds the power in this relationship?
3) Religion is an important element in the book. Discuss how it factored in to the story and what Walpole might have wanted his reader to take away from his depiction of it, the church and those who follow it.
4) Although two of the main characters are men, we see more of the female community in Otranto. What do you know about 18th Century British households? What can you deduce from Walpole’s description of this one? How is it the same or different from households and female relationships today?
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