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cyandelirium 's review for:
Castle of Otranto
by Tony Jay, Horace Walpole
adventurous
challenging
dark
funny
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
I have a terrible tendency to take these classics too seriously and only realise belatedly —— wait, was that meant to be funny?
With that new perspective on mind, this story is suddenly a lot more enjoyable, where you just gotta roll with the punches and enjoy the ride.
It's a fascinating read to see how much Gothic romances have evolved, yet remained the same, since the og. The atmosphere and setting was really well set up with its long winding secret passageways and haunting castles.
The plot twists are also absurdly fun, even if the characters are all so frustrating and irritating to read. I'm surprised not to have heard or seen any notable theatre adaptations of this, because I feel like this could be a really fun play. Especially with all the servants' dialogue. -- Actually, all of the dialogue in this story is great.
Then, googling more about Walpole I have also learnt to appreciate the themes of the story more. Truly fascinating the way these characters and their motivations, wants and fears parallel Walpole's life.
Wouldn't reread, but pls hit me up when they need someone put on this play lol.
With that new perspective on mind, this story is suddenly a lot more enjoyable, where you just gotta roll with the punches and enjoy the ride.
It's a fascinating read to see how much Gothic romances have evolved, yet remained the same, since the og. The atmosphere and setting was really well set up with its long winding secret passageways and haunting castles.
The plot twists are also absurdly fun, even if the characters are all so frustrating and irritating to read. I'm surprised not to have heard or seen any notable theatre adaptations of this, because I feel like this could be a really fun play. Especially with all the servants' dialogue. -- Actually, all of the dialogue in this story is great.
Then, googling more about Walpole I have also learnt to appreciate the themes of the story more. Truly fascinating the way these characters and their motivations, wants and fears parallel Walpole's life.
Wouldn't reread, but pls hit me up when they need someone put on this play lol.
Content Warnings
Minor: Incest, Misogyny, Rape, Sexism, Stalking, Murder