Question 7
HORACE WALPOLE: The Castle of Otranto
Comment on the evil that befalls Prince Manfred.
Observation
Few candidates attempted this question, but failed to give detailed information about the identity of Prince Manfred. They did not point out his interaction with major characters in the novel and his role in the uprising in the castle.
Candidates were expected to mention the following points among others:
- The identity of Prince Manfred.
- Manfred’s ambition to keep the throne in his family.
- The death of Conrad.
- Manfred’s decision to marry Isabella, and its consequences.
- Manfred’s ill treatment of his wife, Hippolita, and its consequences on his fortunes.
- Manfred’s killing of Matilda, his daughter.
- Manfred losing the throne.
Candidates’ performance in the question was poor.
.