The Castle of Otranto

As the first Gothic novel, it introduces a rich tapestry of tropes including hidden passages, haunted paintings, and ancestral curses, laying the groundwork for the genre. The narrative skillfully intertwines supernatural elements with realistic portrayals of characters and events, offering a unique reading experience. Its influence is evident in the works of later authors like Edgar Allan Poe and Bram Stoker, showcasing the evolution of Gothic literature.