The Castle of Otranto characters

Appears from the start

The ruling prince of Otranto, anxious to preserve his dynasty despite an old prophecy that threatens it. Impulsive, domineering, and quick to conceal anything that weakens his claim, he responds to his son's death by devising a new marriage for himself.

Appears from the start

Manfred's devout and submissive wife, and the mother of Conrad and Matilda. She tries to interpret her husband's violent changes charitably even when he proposes setting their marriage aside.

Appears from the start

Manfred and Hippolita's sickly only son, intended to marry Isabella and continue the ruling line. On his wedding day he is found crushed beneath an enormous helmet that has inexplicably appeared in the castle courtyard.

Appears from the start

The daughter of the Marquis of Vicenza and Conrad's intended bride. After Conrad's death, Manfred declares that he will divorce Hippolita and marry Isabella himself. Horrified, Isabella flees through the castle's underground passages.

Appears from the start

Manfred and Hippolita's gentle daughter. She is overshadowed by her brother in her father's dynastic plans, but responds compassionately to Isabella's danger and to the young stranger accused of helping her escape.

Appears from the start

A brave young peasant who observes that the gigantic helmet resembles one on a nearby statue. Manfred treats the remark as suspicious and imprisons him. Theodore later helps Isabella find the passage to sanctuary.

First appears in chapter 2

A friar at the neighboring monastery and Isabella's protector once she claims sanctuary. He confronts Manfred's plan to cast off Hippolita and attempts to prevent further violence.

Also known as Marquis of Vicenza

First appears in chapter 3

Isabella's father and the holder of a rival claim to Otranto. He arrives with armed followers after supernatural signs direct him toward the castle and demands both his daughter and recognition of his rights.

First appears in chapter 2

Matilda's talkative maid and confidante. Her chatter supplies news from around the castle, though her curiosity and romantic speculation often outrun her judgment.

Appears from the start

The long-dead former prince whose gigantic armor appears piece by piece around Otranto. These apparitions embody the prophecy hanging over Manfred's house and suggest that the castle's current possession is not legitimate.