Question 8
HORACE WALPOLE: The Castle of Otranto
Examine the role of Theodore in the novel.
Observation
This was not a popular question. Many of the candidates did a mere narration of the text and could not establish a relationship of his character with that of Alfonso.
The following points were expected from the candidates:
- His introduction as a peasant at the beginning of the novel.
- His identification of the helmet that kills Conrad as same as that on Alfonso’s statue..
- His role as an antagonist to Manfred.
- His appearance in the image of Alfonso.
- His kindness and warm-heartedness.
- Theodore’s true identity and final taking over as Prince and marrying Isabella.
Candidates’ performance in this question was poor.