The Castle of Otranto
by Horace Walpole
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The Castle of Otranto: Setting 1 key example

Definition of Setting

Setting is where and when a story or scene takes place. The where can be a real place like the city of New York, or it can be an imagined... read full definition
Setting is where and when a story or scene takes place. The where can be a real place like the city of New York, or... read full definition
Setting is where and when a story or scene takes place. The where can be a real place like the... read full definition

Key Examples in The Castle of Otranto

Setting
Explanation and Analysis:

The Castle of Otranto is set for the most part in the enormous and hoary old dwelling from which the novel gets its name. Although it is extremely grand and imposing, the castle is neither welcoming nor comfortable. The castle is colossal, echoing, and filled far more with darkness than anything else. It has secret passages, silent and terrifying dungeons and towers for keeping people prisoner. It also connects directly to a church via one of these passages. This connection literally links the cold and tomb-like interior of the house to the austere and stony churches and cathedrals of Western Europe, their religious imagery, and their associations with death and burial.