Bram Stoker’s Dracula: A Representation of the Catholic Churches Corruption and the Protestant Revolt Through Different Class Systems

Abstract

This study seeks to delve into the religious perspective of the novelist Bram Stoker and how he depicted the religious propaganda during the Victorian era through his characters, utilizing the framework of New Historicism as developed by Stephen Greenblatt. Additionally, the study aims to examine how the religious-political system led its followers to blind allegiance. The research employs a theoretical framework that includes an examination of the historical context of religious corruption during the Victorian era, an exploration of elements drawn from the life of the historical figure Vlad the Impaler, an analysis of the gothic aspects of the novel, and an investigation into the role of religion in different class systems. The Victorian culture and religious practices are scrutinized through the portrayal of characters in the novel, each representing a nuanced reflection of Catholicism and Protestantism, depending on their social backgrounds resulting in a collective analysis based on both perspectives. Furthermore, this study considers the adaptations of Stoker's novel, focusing solely on key elements relevant to the research objectives. It harmonizes religious and historical events related to Vlad the Impaler and Bram Stoker's fictional Dracula to facilitate a comprehensive analysis allowing the further researchers to apply Greenblatts theory with a new perspective.