The Mysteries of Udolpho, a Romance

Ann Radcliffe, a pivotal figure in Gothic romance, is celebrated for her pioneering role in popular fiction. Her debut novel, The Castles of Athlin and Dunbayne, launched a successful career marked by stories featuring demure heroines entangled in supernatural melodrama. Esteemed by contemporaries like Sir Walter Scott, Radcliffe's influence extended to later authors, including Jane Austen, who both admired and parodied her style. Radcliffe's works are characterized by their blend of romance and suspense, shaping the genre for future generations.