Examples Of Femininity In Dracula

In 2009 Kuzmanovic wrote that the idea of Vampirism was a representation of ‘the symbolic corruption of English womanhood’ when Britain was in a state of flux and there was a conscious move towards a more liberal and adventurous society . Whilst there are many ways to interpret Stoker’s presentation of femininity such as explicitly through the central female characters, Mina and Lucy, and their perceived roles at this point in time. It is only by contrasting these concepts and shifting ideas, so prevalent in fin de siècle literature, to what was expected and conventional does it becomes evident that the presentation of femininity is twofold. Whilst Stoker’s Dracula does possess some elements of a largely positive depiction of femininity I feel he acts to …show more content…
Throughout the novel Mina is described as having a ‘man brain’ (Dracula: p240), the idea of a woman displaying masculine qualities – most notably intelligence – was not readily accepted in an older, more restricted Victorian society. This highlights a negative depiction of women as it emphasises the belief that Mina’s intelligence was abnormal. Equally Mina’s decision to learn shorthand is detracted from by the fact Stoker asserts that this is motivated by a desire to ‘keep up with Jonathon’s studies’ (Dracula: p55) showing her reliance on him. Regardless of this, however, her desire to become his equal and utilise her typewriter shows a definite strength of character which is perhaps more positive as through this she demonstrates her technical competence. Whilst I do not fully agree with critics such as Wicke who believe ‘the incongruity and mastery of Dracula lies in its willingness to set’ the novel in ‘the midst of Printing House Square’ this view does emphasises the importance of technology within

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