Dracula’s Guest Short story by Bram Stoker

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[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Dracula’s Guest Short story by Bram Stoker [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]

“Dracula’s Guest”

is a short story by Bram Stoker, the author of the iconic novel “Dracula.” The story was originally intended to be the opening chapter of “Dracula,” but was removed by Stoker’s editor before publication. It was later published posthumously in 1914, two years after Stoker’s death.

The story follows an unnamed narrator as he travels through Transylvania on his way to meet Count Dracula. Along the way, he decides to take a detour to explore the local countryside, and ends up at an abandoned village. There, he encounters a mysterious and beautiful woman who seems to be in distress. Despite his misgivings, the narrator follows her into a nearby cemetery, where he encounters a terrifying and supernatural presence.

“Dracula’s Guest” is a classic Gothic horror story, with all the hallmarks of the genre: dark and foreboding atmosphere, supernatural elements, and a sense of mounting dread. Stoker’s writing is masterful, creating a sense of tension and unease that builds throughout the story. The unnamed narrator is an effective and relatable protagonist, providing a human perspective on the supernatural events that unfold.

One of the most interesting aspects of the story is its connection to “Dracula.” While it was originally intended to be the novel’s opening chapter, Stoker’s editor felt that it was too long and tonally different from the rest of the book. However, the events of “Dracula’s Guest” are clearly connected to the larger story of the novel, and offer some tantalizing hints about the nature of Count Dracula and the world he inhabits.

Another notable aspect of the story is its use of setting. Stoker was famously inspired by his travels through Eastern Europe, and “Dracula’s Guest” is no exception. The abandoned village and eerie cemetery are vividly described, creating a sense of place that is both haunting and evocative. The story also draws on the folklore and legends of the region, adding to its sense of authenticity and cultural richness.

Overall, “Dracula’s Guest” is a chilling and suspenseful story that will appeal to fans of Gothic horror and classic literature. It offers a tantalizing glimpse into the world of “Dracula,” while also standing on its own as a well-crafted and engaging tale. Whether you are a longtime fan of Stoker’s work or a newcomer to his writing, this short story is well worth reading.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]