English
Publication Date
Spring 1-25-2024
Document Type
Capstone
Faculty Sponsor
Justin Shaw
Major
English
Abstract
This essay was for Justin Shaw’s fall 2023 English major capstone class. The essay examines antisemitism and vampires, specifically Bram Stoker’s novel Dracula, John Polidori’s short story The Vampyre; A Tale, and the episode “Monster Movie” from the TV show Supernatural through the lens of antisemitic stereotypes. By looking at the literary history of the vampire one can trace its physical antisemitic stereotypes and the influence of fear of the “other” with reverse-colonization by Jews. Starting with historically classic 19th century texts and ending with a modern day television show, it is evident that the antisemitic physical stereotypes of the vampire are still with us.
Keywords
vampires, antisemitism, 19th century, supernatural horror, literature, Supernatural (TV show), Bram Stoker, John Polidori
Recommended Citation
Ross, Hannah, "Antisemitism & Vampires: The Surprising Roots of A Popular Cultural Monster" (2024). English. 3.
https://commons.clarku.edu/undergraduate_english/3
Included in
English Language and Literature Commons, European History Commons, History of Religion Commons, Jewish Studies Commons, Visual Studies Commons