what is connell trying to get the reader to visualize About the scene and or general Zaroff based on the description of this home

Connell is trying to get the reader to visualize the bizzare nature of the setting. It is a mysterious island with a bizarre gothic castle and a strange man who inhabits it. The author includes a gargoyle door knocker and a large baronial hall with stuffed animal heads. This is a surreal place with where danger lurks.