The Castle of Otranto

Discuss the need for and loss of power in the novella. How do those who wield power legitimately differ from those who come to power illegitimately? How is power used correctly and what counts as abuse of power?

How does the novel’s use of medieval elements demonstrate its origins in chivalric romance? How does it forecast the future of Gothic fiction?

Are Manfred’s fears for the future of Otranto purely selfish, or does he have concerns outside of his own interests? Does the novella expect readers feel sorry for him at any point? Why or why not?