The Vampyre

"The Vampyre," written by John Polidori in 1819, is a short story that helped popularize the vampire myth in Western literature. It follows Lord Ruthven, a charming but sinister nobleman, who secretly drains the life force of others to sustain himself. The story explores themes of obsession, danger, and societal facade. Unlike earlier legends, Polidori's vampire is a sophisticated, aristocratic figure, blending supernatural horror with elements of romance and psychology. The work is significant for shaping modern vampire lore and influencing countless stories about these mythic creatures.