Sci-Fi History: Dracula (1897)

Bram Stoker did not invent the vampire. The creature has existed in myth for several thousands of years. Stoker did popularize the vampire and has influenced its mythology ever since. All vampires today derive from Dracula either as a counter to the Stoker story or as a continuation. In addition to the vampire myth, Stoker’s work examined several Victorian themes including folklore, the role of women, sexuality, colonialism, and immigration.

What makes Dracula so appealing is Stoker’s historical research. He based his fictional character on a real person. Stoker read Romanian history and discovered “Dracula”, which means “Son of the Dragon.” Dracula was Vlad the Impaler, whose bloody reign may have involved drinking the blood of his victims, whom he impaled on stakes. Stoker directly references Vlad within the pages of Dracula.

Dracula has appeared in a number of movies and books. Stoker wrote the first adaptation for the stage. The most popular film versions include Nosferatu (1922), Dracula (1931), The Horror of Dracula (1958), and Bram Stoker’s Dracula (1992). There are many other adaptations and sequels. He has even appeared in Buffy the Vampire Slayer. In fact, there are over 200 films featuring Dracula as a major character. Additionally, his influence is in any movie, TV show, play, or book featuring vampires.

Nosferatu (1922):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=patgT_qG65U

Dracula (1931):

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IVPxAgy7lBA

The Horror of Dracula (1958):

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3gBRe2XMljg

Bram Stoker’s Dracula (1992):

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-j6b4Cd3OZo