Vampires have been part of European legends since ancient times, having their origin in people’s fear of darkness, illness or death. According to folklore, they are human beings who after death become predators who need the blood of others to live.
Today, what we know as a vampire is a mixture of cultural traditions and literature, especially from the 19th century. Among the main features are:
– A physical appearance similar to that of a human, with exceptions such as pale skin, long nails or the characteristic fangs that they used to extract blood from their victims.
– The possibility of transforming into other animals: cats, horses or wolves; although the best known form is the bat.
– Since they do not have a soul, they are not reflected in mirrors and are vulnerable to sunlight.
Of the different authors who have decided that their protagonists are vampires, it is worth highlighting Bram Stoker, writer of “Dracula”. The epistolary novel introduces us to Dracula, a vampire who wants to settle in England. The fictional character of Dracula is based on the life of a Romanian nobleman named Vlad.
“Dracula” has influenced many other authors, giving rise to numerous plays, films and television.