In "The Castle of Otranto," Horace Walpole explores the theme of human limitations through the lens of the mystical and supernatural. The quote, "Heaven mocks the short-sighted views of man," suggests that human understanding is often limited and shortsighted, unable to grasp the larger truths that govern existence. This idea resonates throughout the narrative, highlighting how characters are often ensnared by their own limited perspectives and desires.

The novel, a precursor to the Gothic genre, uses elements of the supernatural to emphasize the contrast between human ambition and the inexorable forces of fate. Walpole's work implies that there are higher powers at play, which can render human efforts insignificant. Ultimately, this serves as a reminder that human beings should remain humble in their pursuits, recognizing that their judgments may be flawed in the grand scheme of things.