Question 7
HORACE WALPOLE: The Castle of Otranto
Comment on the supernatural intervention at Manfred’s meeting with Isabella in the castle.
Observation
Few candidates attempted this question. Candidates who attempted this question only made mere narration of events between Manfred and Isabella in the castle. They did not seem to understand the supernatural interventions nor the significance.
Candidates were expected to mention the following points among others:
- • Good understanding of supernatural interventions.
- • Manfred’s call for Isabella to his chamber.
- • Isabella’s horror.
- • The appearance of the moon at the opposite casement.
- • The sighting of his father’s portrait.
- • Significance of the intervention to the reader, Isabella and to Manfred.
Candidates’ performance in the question was poor.