Gender Discrimination In Dracula

An Analysis of the Unvoiced Villain and Sex Undertones in Dracula Most readings of Dracula have covered an emphasis on the theme of sexuality, about homoeroticism, blood-transmitted disease, new women of the Victorian era, and perverse sexual practices. These subjects at the repressed Victoria era, as well as sexuality, were considered to be unspeakable in the public sphere. Women were required to be faithful to men; and sex between men was illegal. Yet Stoker’s text serves more than bringing up the taboo of discussing sexuality at that time. His narrative not only has greatly contributed to the partially concealed sexual undertones, but also has expressed the British Empire’s colonial anxiety of contamination by “the others”. The monstrous

Agreeing with Seed, I endeavor to examine to functional discourse of narrative, especially on the ways Stoker demonizes sexual practices that were unacceptable back then. Fornication, especially for women, might be punished in 19th Century. When Dr. Van Helsing identities the cause of Lucy’s sickness, he declares that “[s]he will die for sheer want of blood”. Blood transfusion from serval men is the only option. However, Dr. Van Helsing first encounters with Lucy’s fiancé Arthur, he seems to be relieved .He defines Arthur as “a man we want”(Stoker113), because blood transfusion was seen as, metaphorically an intercourse. As Podonsky argues, “blood and sexuality within Dracula were very closely related, reflecting the Victorians belief that blood is sperm”. As Dr. Van Helming has planed to use Steward’s blood for Lucy, the patriarchy males may interpret it as an implication of sexual intercourse between the maiden and Steward, leaving Dr.Van Helsing no choice but to deflower Lucy, prior to her fiancee’s arrival. Stoker has, successfully, hides the undignified behavior between the