The Castle of Otranto
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“[Walpole] is the father of the first romance and surely worthy of a higher place than any living writer.”—Lord Byron
On the day of his wedding, Conrad, heir to the house of Otranto, is killed under 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, The Castle of Otranto purported to be an ancient Italian text from the time of the crusades and 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.
 Write a Review of The Castle of Otranto
  
decent, September 02, 2009
Reviewer: bex
Some might expect The Castle of Otranto, an early Gothic novel, to be frightening, but it's really not that kind of story. You certainly are concerned about the safety of some of the characters who are in danger, but the scariest thing about the novel is not anything supernatural (although there are supernatural elements to the story), but the cruel and controlling character Manfred. I like that this recording doesn't use any cheesy, spooky music but just gets right down to the story.
- LearnOutLoud.com Product ID:
T021660
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Volumes |
ISBN |
ISBN-13 |
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Download |
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Audio CD |
4 Discs |
0786170255 |
9780786170258 |
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Cassette |
3 Tapes |
0786145889 |
9780786145881 |
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MP3 CD |
1 Disc |
078617515X |
9780786175154 |
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Literature
European Classics
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