Here's a breakdown of the reactions:
Positive Reactions:
* Critical Acclaim: Many critics praised the novel for its suspense, atmosphere, and psychological depth. They admired Stoker's ability to create a chilling and memorable villain in Dracula.
* Popularity: The novel quickly gained popularity among readers, becoming a bestseller. This popularity contributed to the enduring legacy of Dracula as a cultural icon.
* Influence: "Dracula" became a major influence on the development of the vampire genre in literature and film. It established many of the conventions we associate with vampires today, such as their aversion to sunlight and garlic.
Negative Reactions:
* Criticism of Structure: Some critics found the novel's epistolary style (written as letters, diary entries, etc.) to be cumbersome and confusing.
* Gothic Tropes: Others felt that the novel relied too heavily on gothic tropes and lacked originality.
* Moral Panic: The novel caused some moral panic among conservative Victorian readers due to its themes of sexuality and transgression.
Overall:
While "Dracula" was not universally praised, its success was undeniable. The novel quickly became a cultural sensation and continues to be popular and influential today.
It's important to remember that reception of the novel has evolved over time. What was considered "shocking" or "immoral" in 1897 may be seen as tame today. The enduring popularity of "Dracula" is a testament to its timeless themes of fear, desire, and the dark side of humanity.