Gender and Power in Dracula through Victorian and Modern Lenses

Introduction

Bram Stoker’s seminal work, "Dracula," offers a rich tapestry of themes and character portrayals that delve into the complex dynamics of gender, power, and societal roles during the Victorian era. The novel prominently features the dichotomy between the Victorian Woman and the New Woman, illustrating the shifting paradigms of femininity and empowerment. Through characters like Lucy Westenra and Mina Murray, Stoker not only reflects the societal expectations of women but also critiques them by showcasing the consequences of defying these norms.

This essay explores how Stoker portrays women in vampiric states as more powerful than their human counterparts, examining the underlying themes of sexism and feminism. Furthermore, we will connect these themes to Jeffrey Cohen's Monster Theory, specifically focusing on Thesis Five: "The Monster Polices the Borders of the Possible," to understand how curiosity and transgression are punished in the narrative.

The Duality of Femininity: Victorian and New Woman

The Victorian Woman, as epitomized by Mina Murray, embodies the era's idealized vision of femininity—pure, submissive, and devoted. Stoker describes Mina as “one of God’s women,” suggesting divine perfection in her virtues. Her character is designed to be the epitome of the Victorian ideal, emphasizing submission and loyalty to her husband, Jonathan Harker. This portrayal reflects the societal expectation that women should exhibit humility and selflessness, traits that are heralded as noble and desirable.

Conversely, Lucy Westenra represents the New Woman, a symbol of burgeoning independence and sexual autonomy that defied Victorian conventions. Stoker illustrates Lucy’s character as one who is unapologetically expressive of her desires, which eventually leads to her downfall. Her willingness to entertain multiple suitors and her overt sexuality are depicted as dangerous transgressions that ultimately render her vulnerable to Dracula’s influence. Lucy’s characterization as a New Woman underscores the tension between traditional gender roles and emerging feminist ideas, highlighting the societal fear of changing female autonomy.

The Monstrous Feminine: Power and Punishment

In "Dracula," female characters exhibit monstrous traits when they step outside the prescribed boundaries of their gender roles. Lucy’s transformation into a vampire symbolizes the ultimate punishment for her sexual freedom and independence. Described as “unclean and full of hell fire,” her new vampiric state is a direct consequence of her deviation from Victorian norms. This transformation aligns with Cohen’s Monster Theory, where crossing societal boundaries invites monstrous repercussions. Lucy’s fate serves as a cautionary tale against the dangers of uncontrolled female sexuality.

Similarly, Mina’s encounter with Dracula reveals her latent monstrous feminine side. Despite being the ideal Victorian woman, Mina becomes a vessel for Dracula's influence, highlighting the precarious nature of female purity. Dracula’s invasion into Mina’s life and the subsequent transformation process underscore the novel’s underlying message that even the most virtuous women are susceptible to corruption when exposed to forbidden knowledge or desires. Mina’s struggle against her transformation demonstrates the tension between personal agency and societal expectations.

Sexism and Control: The Role of the Monster

Dracula himself represents the ultimate patriarchal figure, exerting control over the female characters and punishing them for their transgressions. His interactions with Lucy, Mina, and the three vampire sisters reveal a complex dynamic of power and submission. The female vampires’ attempt to seduce Jonathan Harker challenges Dracula’s authority, illustrating their defiance against male dominance. However, Dracula’s swift reprimand reinforces the notion that women who assert themselves beyond their prescribed roles are subject to control and punishment.

The novel also critiques the rigid gender roles of the Victorian era by juxtaposing the monstrous feminine with the ideal woman. The portrayal of female characters as either virtuous or monstrous underscores the limited avenues available for women to express their identity. By punishing characters like Lucy for their independence, Stoker reflects the societal anxiety surrounding the New Woman and the perceived threat to traditional gender dynamics.

Conclusion

In "Dracula," Bram Stoker intricately weaves themes of femininity, power, and societal norms to critique the rigid gender roles of the Victorian era. Through the contrasting depictions of Mina Murray and Lucy Westenra, Stoker explores the tension between the Victorian Woman and the New Woman, highlighting the consequences of transgressing societal boundaries. The novel's portrayal of female characters as both victims and wielders of monstrous power serves as a commentary on the limitations imposed on women and the potential for empowerment through defiance. By connecting these themes to Jeffrey Cohen's Monster Theory, we gain a deeper understanding of how Stoker uses the monstrous feminine to navigate the complexities of gender and power. Ultimately, "Dracula" remains a poignant exploration of the evolving roles of women and the enduring struggle for autonomy and equality.

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