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"[Walpole] is the father of the first romance and surely worthy of a higher place
than any living writer."Lord Byron

On the day of his wedding, Conrad, heir to the house of Otranto, is killed under mysterious circumstances. His calculating father, Manfred, fears that his dynasty will now come to an end and determines to marry his son's bride himselfdespite the fact he is already married. But a series of terrifying supernatural omens soon threaten this unlawful union, as the curse placed on Manfred's ancestor, who usurped the lawful Prince of Otranto, begins to unfold.

First published pseudonymously in 1764, The Castle of Otranto purported to be an ancient Italian text from the time of the crusades and is a founding work of Gothic fiction. With its compelling blend of sinister portents, tempestuous passions, and ghostly visitations, it spawned an entire literary tradition and influenced such writers as Ann Radcliffe and Bram Stoker.

Horace Walpole (1717-1797), following his education at Eton and King's College, Cambridge, Walpole spent several years in politics. In 1757 he established a private printing press at Strawberry Hill, his home in Twickenham. There he published his own works as well as those of other authors. Upon his death, he held the title of Earl of Oxford.

Tony Jay was born in London, England. The former Royal Shakespeare Company actor is a veteran of stage, television, film, and radio. His voice is recognized internationally for his work as Judge Frollo in Disney's The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and innumerable narrations for the History Channel and A& E. His voice is also heard in Disney Theme Parks around the world.