Here's a breakdown of the most prominent contenders for "hero" and why it's hard to definitively choose one:
* Jonathan Harker: He's the first to encounter Dracula and is held captive in his castle. He's brave and resourceful, but also initially naive and easily manipulated.
* Mina Harker (née Murray): She's a strong and intelligent woman who acts as a vital source of information and support for the group. Her connection to Dracula through her bloodline makes her a crucial target and a symbol of resilience.
* Van Helsing: He's the experienced vampire hunter who guides the group in their fight against Dracula. He is brilliant and resourceful, but also can be seen as manipulative and overbearing at times.
* The entire group: The story hinges on the collaborative efforts of Jonathan, Mina, Van Helsing, Dr. Seward, Lucy Westenra, and others. They share information, support each other, and combine their skills to ultimately defeat Dracula.
In a way, *Dracula* is less about a singular hero and more about a collective victory against a terrifying evil. Each character contributes their unique strengths and faces their own personal challenges in the fight. The story emphasizes the importance of cooperation, courage, and determination in facing a shared threat.