In the contemporary world of literature, film, and video games, the presence of vampires has become an intriguing phenomenon, deeply rooted in the human imagination. In this article titled “The Origins of Vampire Tropes,” we will explore the origins, characteristics, and evolution of this particular genre. This time, we will focus on one of the most famous and beloved types of horror, supernatural drama: “Vampire.”
Today, the “Vampire” is a crucial part of our modern culture. They are not just a type of blood-sucking monster in horror literature and imagination; they are often depicted as the most fascinating creature of the night. Although the “Vampire” phenomenon gained a sexy twist around 2016, its origins are relatively rooted in darker themes that many people might overlook.
Vampires, or blood-sucking creatures, have appeared in multiple cultural narratives worldwide. They are one of the most diverse supernatural beings, with the term “Vampire” originating from Slavic folklore (Central and Eastern Europe). Therefore, in this article, we will primarily focus on European vampires as portrayed in Hollywood films and video games.
The term “Vampire” does not have a definitive origin. No one can pinpoint exactly when it emerged, how it developed, or from which linguistic roots it derived. What is clear is that, whether used in Slavic languages or appearing in English literature in the 18th century, it represents a specific type of being in folklore, often depicted as a corpse that reanimates to consume human blood to sustain its existence.
Based on cultural perspectives, the portrayal of a “Vampire” has undergone significant transformations over time. They can range from simple caricatures to complex characters that embody themes of seduction and horror. Choices made to depict “Vampires” can vary widely, from their physical appearance to methods of attack, often shown in films as monstrous beings lurking in the shadows.
However, there are some strategies to stave off a potential vampire, such as placing a sacred object, like a cross or a piece of garlic, in the coffin of the deceased. This practice is believed to prevent the vampire from reanimating and haunting the living. It’s a bizarre notion, but it is indeed a prevalent belief! While today’s vampires often have a glamorous appearance, the original Slavic vampires were considered more grotesque, with an alarming and hideous visage. This belief led to the idea of a “vampiric” entity lurking among the living, seeking out the deceased to feast upon their blood.
Every aspect begins to change when humans shift their focus from the physical attributes of these creatures to their psychological implications. Psychoanalyst Ernest Jones noted in 1931 that the primary purpose of a vampire in folklore reflects a fundamental life force, often linked to themes of intimacy and dependency. This connection to human relationships often symbolizes the struggle of desire and pain.
The psychological landscape of these blood-sucking entities is often evident in their portrayal, especially before death. However, during the Victorian era, they began to permeate literature, as writers and poets incorporated the term “Vampire” into their Gothic and romantic works. While the term appeared earlier, the first notable appearance in literature can be traced to John Polidori’s 1819 work “The Vampyre,” featuring the character Lord Ruthven, a vampire modeled after the infamous Lord Byron.
Instead of being a mere ghastly figure, Lord Ruthven was a charming and aristocratic character within British society, often depicted as being inextricably linked to women. The character of Ruthven represented a significant shift in the portrayal of vampires, evolving into a being that seduces and enthralls, blending horror with allure, a concept later perfected by Bram Stoker in the classic novel “Dracula.” However, the representation of vampires in this period is not solely limited to Stoker’s works; it also includes the iconic film “Nosferatu” by director F.W. Murnau.
Although a significant contribution to the development of the vampire’s fame, “Nosferatu” remains a haunting representation that aligns closely with the original vampire folklore, portraying a grotesque and menacing figure. As adaptations based on Bram Stoker’s works emerged, vampires transformed into more alluring creatures, evolving from terrifying monsters to tragic and romantic figures, paving the way for contemporary portrayals.
According to Geek
