Essay on Stokers Portrayal of Women in Dracula

Similar to almost every piece of literature ever created, Dracula by Bram Stoker has been interpreted many different ways, being torn at from every angle possible. Just as one might find interest in interpreting novels differently, he or she might also find interest in the plot, prose, or theme, all of which ultimately lead to the novels overall tone. Throughout the novel, it becomes blatant that the novel contains an underlying theme of female incompetence and inferiority. Through a true feminist’s eyes, this analysis can clearly be understood by highlighting the actions of Mina and Lucy, the obvious inferior females in the book. Through Stoker’s complete and utter manipulation of Mina and Lucy, he practically forces the reader to analyze†¦show more content†¦In fact, it becomes quite obvious that Stoker deliberately characterizes her differently than her male counterparts. Mina barely lives a life of her own, constantly relying on men to make decisions for he r. To the reader, it might seem like a woman taking orders or something of the sort, but it comes to the point where the reader is forced to think that Mina does not know a different way of life. Whether that analysis is true or not, Mina falls completely dependent on men. For example, when looking for Dracula, Mr. Morris says, â€Å"And now for you, Madam Mina, this night is the end until all be well. You are too precious to us to have such risk. When we part to-night, you no more must question. We shall tell you all in good time. We are men and are able to bear; but you must be our star and hope, and we shall act all the more free that you are not in the danger, such as we are† (Stoker, 270). Mine is instructed to stay home because it might not be safe otherwise. This brief and obvious message delivered by Mr. Morris is one of the first real misogynistic comments made in the novel. It is apparent that Mina is very dissatisfied with these orders, but being a woman, what choice does she have. Only occasionally will the reader see Mina speak up for what she wants. For example, Mina says, â€Å"Manlike, they had told me to go to bed and sleep; as if a woman can sleep when those she loves are in danger!† ( Stoker, 270) Although one could make the pointShow MoreRelated Comparison of Dracula and Br am Stokers Dracula Essay1462 Words   |  6 PagesCompare/Contrast Dracula and Bram Stokers Dracula A noticeable difference in the way movies have changed over the years is evident when comparing and contrasting two films of different eras which belong to the same genre and contain the same subject matter. Two vampire movies, Dracula and Bram Stokers Dracula, present an interesting example of this type of study. 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