Horace Walpole

Date of Birth: September 24, 1717

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Date of Death: March 2, 1797

Biography

Horace Walpole, 4th Earl of Orford, was an English writer, art historian, antiquarian, and Whig politician. He was born in London, England, and is best known for his gothic novel “The Castle of Otranto,” which is considered one of the first gothic novels and a cornerstone of the genre. Walpole was the son of Sir Robert Walpole, the first Prime Minister of Great Britain, and was educated at Eton College and King’s College, Cambridge. Throughout his life, Walpole was deeply involved in the literary and political circles of his time. He was a prolific letter writer, and his correspondence offers valuable insights into 18th-century English politics, society, and culture. His home, Strawberry Hill House, is a notable example of Gothic Revival architecture, which he personally designed and decorated. Walpole’s contributions to literature, architecture, and art history have left a lasting legacy. He was a man of many talents and interests, whose works continue to be studied and admired to this day.

5 Interesting Facts about Horace Walpole

1. Horace Walpole coined the term “serendipity” in a letter to Horace Mann in 1754.

2. He was the youngest son of Sir Robert Walpole, the first Prime Minister of Great Britain.

3. Walpole designed and built Strawberry Hill House, which became a model for Gothic Revival architecture.

4. His novel “The Castle of Otranto” was originally published anonymously in 1764.

5. Walpole was a close friend of many prominent figures of his time, including the poet Thomas Gray and the actor David Garrick.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Horace Walpole

1. “The world is a comedy to those that think, a tragedy to those that feel.”

2. “Life is a comedy for those who think and a tragedy for those who feel.”

3. “The wisest prophets make sure of the event first.”

4. “This world is a comedy to those that think, a tragedy to those that feel.”

5. “Men are sent into the world with bills of credit, and seldom draw to their full extent.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Horace Walpole’s exact net worth is difficult to determine by today’s standards, but he was considered quite affluent, especially due to his inheritance and various estates.