Dracula

Definition

Dracula is a Gothic horror novel written by Bram Stoker, published in 1897, that tells the story of Count Dracula's attempt to move from Transylvania to England to spread the undead curse. The novel embodies key elements of Gothic literature, such as the supernatural, terror, and themes of sexuality and fear of the unknown, while also reflecting Victorian anxieties about immigration, disease, and modernity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Dracula is structured as an epistolary novel, using letters, diary entries, and newspaper clippings to create a sense of realism and immediacy in the storytelling.
2. The character of Count Dracula is often interpreted as a representation of both fear and desire, symbolizing societal fears about sexuality and the 'Other' during the Victorian era.
3. The novel's setting plays a crucial role in building tension; Transylvania is depicted as a mysterious and dangerous land, contrasting sharply with the orderly society of England.
4. The presence of female characters like Mina Harker and Lucy Westenra highlights themes of female empowerment and vulnerability within a patriarchal society.
5. Dracula's influence extends beyond literature into popular culture, establishing many conventions for vampire stories that are still prevalent today.

Review Questions

• How does Stoker's use of epistolary form in Dracula enhance the Gothic themes present in the novel?
  • Stoker's use of an epistolary form enhances the Gothic themes by providing multiple perspectives on events that create suspense and tension. The fragmented narrative allows readers to piece together the horror gradually, emphasizing uncertainty and fear of the unknown. This technique immerses readers in the characters' experiences and emotions, effectively heightening the sense of dread associated with Count Dracula's sinister influence.
• Analyze how Dracula reflects Victorian anxieties regarding sexuality and immigration.
  • Dracula reflects Victorian anxieties about sexuality through its portrayal of Count Dracula as both an alluring figure and a source of danger. The novel addresses fears surrounding sexual liberation, as Dracula represents forbidden desires that challenge conventional morality. Additionally, Dracula's arrival in England symbolizes fears of immigration, with the foreign outsider threatening the stability of English society. These intertwined anxieties create a complex narrative that critiques Victorian values.
• Evaluate the significance of female characters in Dracula and how they contribute to broader themes within Gothic literature.
  • The female characters in Dracula are significant as they embody both empowerment and vulnerability, reflecting societal tensions regarding gender roles during the Victorian era. Mina Harker represents a blend of modernity and traditional femininity, showcasing resilience in the face of danger while also being subjected to male control. Lucy Westenra's transformation into a vampire illustrates the fear associated with female sexuality and autonomy. Together, these characters contribute to broader themes in Gothic literature by exploring the complexities of gender dynamics and societal expectations.

Related terms

Gothic Literature: A genre that combines elements of horror, romance, and the supernatural, often featuring dark settings, complex characters, and themes of isolation and madness.

Victorian Morality: The set of social norms and values during the Victorian era that emphasized propriety, sexual restraint, and the importance of family and home life.

Vampire Mythology: A collection of folklore surrounding vampires, which includes their characteristics, behaviors, and cultural significance across various societies.