As the first-ever Gothic novel, THE CASTLE OF OTRANTO is a must-read for any fan of the genre, if not for its entertaining plot, then for its demonstration of Gothic qualities. Walpole guides the reader through a world of decrepit castles, malicious spirits, angry giants, violent tragedies, and dramatic romance. The short book is a quick yet immensely satisfying journey, and also holds academic value. THE CASTLE OF OTRANTO is the source of it all: Poe’s dreadful atmospheres and Stoker’s foggy European landscapes, not to mention the setting of nearly every classic horror film. Although Walpole’s novel may prove a bit slow for some modern chiller audiences, it is nevertheless worth a look just for a glimpse of the roots of contemporary horror.