Page 2: Key Themes and Victorian Society
This page focuses on the key themes present in Chapter 8 of Dracula and their relation to Victorian society.
Tension is built through dramatic irony, as the reader is aware of events that Lucy doesn't understand. The supernatural element is evident in Lucy's lack of control over her own body when Dracula exerts power over her.
Example: Lucy's struggle to breathe and her heavy breaths demonstrate Dracula's supernatural influence.
The role of women in Victorian society is explored through Mina's motherly behavior towards Lucy. This portrayal shows Mina's sweet and gentle nature, aligning with societal expectations of women.
Definition: Suffragettes - Women who campaigned for the right to vote in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The text touches on Victorian attitudes towards female sexuality, suggesting that a woman's sex drive was considered unnecessary except for reproduction. Extremely sexually active or dominant women were viewed as influenced by devilish or satanic powers.
Religion and blood symbolism are intertwined, with blood representing both vampiric sustenance and Christian communion wine, symbolizing eternal spiritual life.