Horace Walpole

Horace Walpole (1717–1797) was an English writer, politician, and historian known for his wit and literary contributions. He famously authored "The Castle of Otranto," regarded as the first Gothic novel, shaping that genre’s development. Walpole was also a keen letter-writer, providing detailed insights into 18th-century society and politics. As a man of taste and style, he influenced architecture with his use of Gothic Revival designs in his home, Strawberry Hill. His multifaceted career uniquely combined literary creativity, political involvement, and architectural innovation, making him a notable figure in 18th-century England’s cultural landscape.