Draculas Homep

A Dracula Handbook

A Dracula Handbook provides succinct and accurate information about Dracula. Written for a general readership, the book should appeal to aficionados, students and the just plain curious. Using question/answer format, the book covers a range of topics: the origins of the vampire myth; the life of Bram Stoker, author of Dracula (1897); the novel, its genesis and sources; the historical figure (Vlad the Impaler) whose nickname Stoker borrowed for his Count; an examination of the connection between Vlad and Count Dracula; the phenomenal impact the novel has had since its publication, and an overview of interpretations of the book. Also included is a comprehensive reading list.

Here are some of the many questions that are directly answered in the book:

  • What are the roots of vampire lore?
  • How did vampires move from folklore to literature?
  • What do we know about the actual writing of Dracula?
  • Where did Bram Stoker find his information about vampires?
  • Are there any autobiographical elements in Dracula?
  • Did Dracula originate in a nightmare?
  • What do we know of the relationship between Stoker and his wife?
  • Did Stoker die of syphilis?
  • How did Count Dracula become a vampire?
  • Does Count Dracula have any redeeming qualities?
  • How was the novel Dracula received when published in 1897?
  • What did Stoker himself say about the novel?
  • Why did Stoker name his vampire "Dracula"?
  • Why did he select Transylvania as the vampire's homeland?
  • How much did Stoker really know about Vlad the Impaler?
  • Was Vlad ever associated with vampire legends?
  • What are our main sources of information about Vlad?
  • Why do many Romanians consider Vlad to be a national hero?
  • Which of the Dracula movies is the best adaptation of Stoker's novel?
  • What impact has Dracula had on subsequent vampire fiction?
  • Why does Count Dracula have such enduring appeal?
  • How do Romanians feel about Dracula tourism in their country?
  • Is there a real Castle Dracula?
  • What are some of the interpretations of Dracula?
  • Is Dracula a classic?

And many, many more! Depending on the complexity of the questions, the answers range from 5-6 lines to several pages. At the end of each chapter there is a shortlist for further reading. At the end of the book there is a comprehensive bibliography.

Back Button

COPYRIGHT©2005 Dr. Elizabeth Miller