Thomas Foster's third chapter explores the symbolism of creatures such as vampires and ghosts, arguing that they are always about something other than themselves, some hidden destructive behavior or impulse. He compares this concept to typical human behavior.
Vampirism: key details
- older figure violates younger woman
- “vampire” leaves his mark on the victim
- vampire steals innocence
- sexual allure
- older figure = corrupt, outdated values
- victim = stripping away of youth, energy, and virtue
- a continuance of the old “vampire’s” life-force
- the demise/destruction of the young victim
Ghosts: key details
- ghost grows in strength by weakening someone else (applies to vampires as well)
Symbolism
- selfishness
- exploitation
- denial of someone else's right to live in order to satisfy our own needs/desires
- placing our desires above someone else's
- a refusal to respect other people’s independence
Examples of Lit Discussed in Chapter:
Dracula, A Christmas Carol, The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, The Master of Ballantrae, The Turn of the Screw, “Daisy Miller”, Tess of the D'Urbervilles, Women in Love,
Other Example: Twilight by Stephenie Meyer
Though the success of this series is slightly mentioned in How to Read Lit, the author does not elaborate on its' application to the symbolism he finds in regards to vampirism. Vampire Edward Cullen accidentally falls in love with human Isabella (Bella) Swan and spends most of the Saga fighting his bloodlust for her as they face immense challenges both together and individually. He even attempts to stay away from her for her own safety and so that she may live a normal human life, but was ultimately unsuccessful in this as she is eventually transformed into a vampire herself. Both of the main characters portray selfishness, exploitation, and a refusal to respect the other's independence.
