Horace Walpole
- Born:
- September 24, 1717, London, England
- Died:
- March 2, 1797, London, England
- Nationality:
- British
- Profession(s):
- Art Historian, Man of Letters, Writer, Antiquarian, Politician
Early Life and Education
- Fourth son of Sir Robert Walpole, the first Prime Minister of Great Britain.
- Educated at Eton College and King's College, Cambridge.
- Developed a keen interest in literature, art, and history from a young age.
Career and Major Achievements
- Served as a Member of Parliament for several constituencies, though he was not actively involved in politics.
- Established Strawberry Hill House, a Gothic Revival villa in Twickenham, which became a significant architectural landmark and a hub for artistic and intellectual gatherings.
- Founded the Strawberry Hill Press, which printed numerous works, including his own.
- Significant contribution to art history through his writings and collections.
Notable Works
- The Castle of Otranto (1764): Widely considered the first Gothic novel.
- Anecdotes of Painting in England (1762-1771): A valuable resource for art historians.
- Historic Doubts on the Life and Reign of King Richard III (1768).
- Extensive collection of letters, providing insight into 18th-century British society and culture.
Legacy and Impact
Horace Walpole's lasting legacy rests on his contributions to Gothic literature, art history, and architectural design. His creation of Strawberry Hill House and his literary works significantly influenced the development of the Gothic Revival and continue to be studied and appreciated today. This succinct account serves as a concise biography of Horace Walpole, highlighting his key achievements and contributions.