Evolution of Vampires

The Evolution of Vampires

Over the last century, numerous vampire narratives have been written and produced. Each new narrative has differed from the previous one in its portrayal of these blood-sucking creatures. A look back over the last century reveals how vampire narratives have changed. This change becomes evident as one observes vampire movies in the last century, such as Nosferatu (1922), Dracula (1958), and Twilight (2008). Vampires were originally created as repulsive, seclusive, hideous, dark, blood-sucking creatures that prey at night on the weak. Today, vampires have progressed into seductive, attractive creatures that at first glance appear to be human. By observing these movies, it becomes apparent that vampires have evolved in the last century from monstrous creatures to more appealing human-like creatures in their appearance, mortality, and social acceptability.

From Nosferatu to Dracula to Twilight, a progression of change in the vampires’ physical appearance can be detected. The vampire in Nasferatu is a monstrous creature. His large ears, baldhead, long nails, and sharp protruding vampire teeth attribute to this horrific semblance. Nasferatu has very little human similarity or attractiveness. On the other hand, Dracula is well dressed, actually over dressed, wearing the famous vampire tuxedo. He outwardly appears to be human except for his fangs. In Twilight, vampires are further humanized and appear attractive and appealing. They dress just like other humans. They have sharp teeth instead of fangs, and by all appearances, they look like their human neighbors with the exception of their pale complexion.

The second change seen in vampires is the progression of the vampires’ mortality, from being fragile creatures to strong, fast, and almost immortal beings. Most limitations of vampires have been lifted today. Nosferatu comes across as weak and fragile, while Dracula possesses many superhuman abilities and only a few limitations. He can still...