Folklore and History:
* Transylvanian Folklore: Stoker was fascinated by the folklore of Transylvania, specifically its vampire legends. He researched extensively, drawing from local stories, historical accounts, and even his own travels through the region.
* Vlad the Impaler: The historical figure of Vlad III, known as Vlad the Impaler, is a strong influence on the character of Dracula. Stoker may have learned about Vlad's cruelty and bloodthirsty nature from historical accounts, which he likely incorporated into his portrayal of the vampire.
* Eastern European Legends: Stoker also drew inspiration from other Eastern European vampire legends, such as the "Nosferatu" myth, which featured a pale, nocturnal creature.
Literary and Cultural Influences:
* Gothic Literature: Stoker was a devotee of Gothic literature, particularly works by authors like Edgar Allan Poe and Mary Shelley. These authors' dark and suspenseful tales likely inspired Stoker's own fascination with the macabre and the supernatural.
* Romantic Literature: The themes of romantic love and forbidden desire in Stoker's novel likely find their roots in Romantic literature, particularly in works by authors like Lord Byron and John Keats.
* Victorian Culture: The Victorian era was a time of great social change and upheaval, which likely influenced the novel's themes of morality, sexuality, and the power of the supernatural.
Personal Influences:
* Stoker's Illnesses: Stoker suffered from several illnesses throughout his life, including a near-fatal illness in his youth. Some argue that his experiences with illness and death might have fueled his interest in the supernatural and the dark side of human nature.
* His Wife's Influence: Stoker's wife, Florence Balcombe, was a strong and independent woman who likely encouraged his creative ambitions. Some speculate that her influence may be seen in the novel's strong female characters, such as Mina Harker.
Other Potential Influences:
* Hypnosis: Stoker's interest in the burgeoning field of hypnosis at the time is evident in the novel. He used hypnotic trance as a means of communication and control, mirroring the vampire's power over its victims.
* The "Dark Continent" of Africa: Stoker, who had served as the theater manager for Henry Irving, witnessed the rise of colonial expansion in Africa. This experience may have informed the novel's portrayal of Dracula as a foreign threat to Victorian society.
In conclusion, Bram Stoker's Dracula was a product of diverse influences, ranging from ancient folklore to the anxieties of Victorian society. The novel's enduring popularity is a testament to its compelling combination of horror, romance, and social commentary.