The Castle of Otranto · Question
How does The Castle of Otranto develop the theme of Supernatural and Divine Justice?
Answer
The Castle of Otranto by Horace Walpole develops Supernatural and Divine Justice across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
Giant helmets, walking portraits, and spectral visions act as instruments of fate, punishing Manfred's ambition and enforcing a moral order that ultimately restores justice to the castle.
The giant helmet, ghostly apparitions, and collapsing castle walls serve as divine interventions that punish Manfred's usurpation and restore rightful lineage.
The giant helmet falling from nowhere and its connection to Alfonso's statue suggests supernatural intervention and impending justice.
The shaking plumes and trumpet sounds are interpreted as divine portents, and Jerome warns Manfred that heaven is displeased with his mockery.
Evidence in the book
- The Castle of Otranto
The giant helmet, ghostly apparitions, and collapsing castle walls serve as divine interventions that punish Manfred's usurpation and restore rightful lineage.
- I
The giant helmet falling from nowhere and its connection to Alfonso's statue suggests supernatural intervention and impending justice.
- Chapter III
The shaking plumes and trumpet sounds are interpreted as divine portents, and Jerome warns Manfred that heaven is displeased with his mockery.
- Chapter V
The castle's collapse, Alfonso's ghost, and St. Nicholas's appearance manifest divine punishment and restoration.
