Horace Walpole

著者について

Horace Walpole was an English writer, art historian, and politician, best known for his contributions to the Gothic novel genre. Born into a prominent Whig family, he was the son of the first Prime Minister of Great Britain, Sir Robert Walpole. His most famous work, 'The Castle of Otranto,' published in 1764, is often regarded as the first Gothic novel, which set the stage for a genre that would flourish throughout the 18th and 19th centuries. Walpole's writing style combined elements of horror, romance, and the supernatural, which captivated readers and influenced many authors who followed.

In addition to his literary achievements, Walpole was also an avid collector and an influential figure in the arts. He established the Strawberry Hill estate, which became a site of architectural innovation and a showcase for his extensive collection of art and antiquities. His writings on art and literature, including his memoirs and letters, provide valuable insights into the cultural and political atmosphere of his time. Walpole's legacy continues to resonate in both literature and the study of Gothic aesthetics, marking him as a pivotal figure in English literary history.