The History of Dracula

The character of Dracula originated from Bram Stoker's 1897 novel, inspired by Eastern European folklore and the vampire myth. Count Dracula is a centuries-old vampire who seeks to spread immortality and control through blood-drinking. The novel popularized the vampire archetype in literature, blending Gothic horror with themes of superstition, sexuality, and fear of the unknown. Over time, Dracula became a cultural icon, inspiring countless adaptations in film, theater, and other media, shaping the modern vampire image—eerie, charismatic, and morally complex. His story reflects societal anxieties about mortality, power, and the supernatural.