# Usurpation and Legitimacy in The Castle of Otranto

> Theme guide for The Castle of Otranto by Horace Walpole.

The central conflict revolves around Manfred's illegitimate claim to Otranto, with the prophecy and the supernatural events serving to restore the rightful lineage, highlighting the theme of rightful rule versus tyrannical usurpation.

## Where it surfaces

- [The Castle of Otranto](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_castle_of_otranto_se/chapters/the-castle-of-otranto): Manfred's rule is founded on his grandfather's murder of Alfonso, and the prophecy foretells its downfall, questioning the legitimacy of his power.
- [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_castle_of_otranto_se/chapters/i): The prophecy about the castle passing from the present family when the real owner grows too large hints at Manfred's illegitimate claim to Otranto.
- [Chapter II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_castle_of_otranto_se/chapters/ii): Manfred's desperate attempt to secure an heir through divorce and remarriage highlights his fear of losing the usurped throne of Otranto.
- [Chapter III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_castle_of_otranto_se/chapters/iii): The herald openly calls Manfred an usurper, challenging his title to Otranto and demanding the return of Isabella to her rightful father, Frederic.
- [Chapter IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_castle_of_otranto_se/chapters/iv): Jerome declares that Manfred's tyrannical race must be swept away, reinforcing the theme of illegitimate rule facing divine retribution.
- [Chapter V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_castle_of_otranto_se/chapters/v): Manfred's confession and the ghost of Alfonso affirm Theodore as the true heir, restoring legitimate rule.

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_castle_of_otranto_se/themes/usurpation_and_legitimacy
- Themes index: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_castle_of_otranto_se/themes