Representation Of Women In Dracula

This paper will discuss the novel, Dracula by Bram Stoker published in 1897 and its description of Lucy Westenra’s death, transformation into a vampire, and her subsequent actions and release from her "Un-Dead" state. The following paper will explore Stoker’s representation of Lucy in the context of cultural norms of this time in Britain. In addition, the paper will look at stoker’s process intended to reinforce social norms through his character, Lucy Westenra.

In Dracula, Stoker’s illustration of Lucy Westenra’s transformation represents a reaction to the historical and political influence that women were beginning to have in Britain (Timeline Great Britain 1860-1910). The rise of the “new woman”, who fought fiercely for women’s suffrage and female emancipation, helped to transform the way that Victorian women pronounced themselves. The ambitious “new woman” strove to reach a more worthy and intricate position within society; socially, in the home and in the workplace.

Stoker portrays the “new woman” ideology as dangerously unconscionable and morally unsound. He creates Lucy’s character to demonstrate to the audience of how susceptible a young, persuadable Victorian girl could be towards the dangerous influence and allure of the “new women” ideology.

Lucy Westenra’s character previous to her transformation into a vampire suggests to us that she perhaps possesses some of the ‘new woman’ aspects considered unpleasant. These aspects are that she is attractive to three men as well as she displays a realm of sexual fascination way before becoming one of the “Un-Dead”. However, she is a vulnerable but unpredictable and flirtatious girl, yet essentially a good person and completely without