Horace Walpole Quotes

A collection of quotes by Horace Walpole.

Horace Walpole (1717-1797) was a prominent English writer, art historian, and politician. Born in London, he was the third son of Sir Robert Walpole, Britain's first Prime Minister. Walpole is best known for his novel "The Castle of Otranto," which is considered the first gothic novel ever published. It was a significant influence in shaping the gothic genre, inspiring many subsequent works.

Throughout his life, Walpole actively engaged in politics and had a successful political career. He served as a Member of Parliament for various constituencies, including Castle Rising and Callington. Despite being an influential political figure, Walpole's true passion lay in literature, art, and antiquities.

Walpole was an avid collector of art and historic artifacts, amassing an impressive collection at his home in Strawberry Hill, London. He played a pivotal role in the revival of Gothic architecture, transforming Strawberry Hill House into a masterpiece of Gothic Revival design.

In addition to his substantial literary and aesthetic contributions, Horace Walpole was a skilled correspondent and diarist, maintaining an extensive network of friends and acquaintances. He conducted correspondence with notable figures of his time, such as Sir Joshua Reynolds and Thomas Gray, and his letters and journals provide valuable insights into the literary and cultural milieu of the 18th century.

Walpole's impact on literature, his fascination with the gothic, and his contributions to politics and the arts have solidified his place as a significant figure in English history.