The Castle of Otranto · Question
How does The Castle of Otranto develop the theme of Gender and Power?
Answer
The Castle of Otranto by Horace Walpole develops Gender and Power across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
Female characters like Hippolita, Matilda, and Isabella are subjected to Manfred's patriarchal authority, yet they demonstrate resilience, piety, and agency through their resistance, escape, and moral strength.
Hippolita's submission and Isabella's flight illustrate the limited agency of women, while Manfred asserts patriarchal control over both.
Hippolita's submission to Manfred's will and her advice that women must obey fathers and husbands highlight the powerlessness of women in patriarchal society.
Evidence in the book
- Chapter II
Hippolita's submission and Isabella's flight illustrate the limited agency of women, while Manfred asserts patriarchal control over both.
- Chapter IV
Hippolita's submission to Manfred's will and her advice that women must obey fathers and husbands highlight the powerlessness of women in patriarchal society.
