The Castle of Otranto

by Horace Walpole

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"The Castle of Otranto" by Horace Walpole is a novel published in 1764, widely regarded as the first Gothic novel. Set in a haunted medieval castle, the story follows Lord Manfred as his family faces a terrifying ancient prophecy. When his son is crushed by a gigantic helmet on his wedding day, Manfred desperately attempts to prevent his dynasty's downfall.

Summary from Project Gutenberg.

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Topics: Gothic fiction · Horror tales · Inheritance and succession -- Fiction