230601 From Womanizer to Vegetarian-Motifs and Covert Messages in Vampire Narratives (S) (WiSe 2010/2011)

“And so the lion fell in love with the lamb”
Fan groups referring to this quotation abound in social networks and this simple line puts the spell cast by Twilight in a nutshell. The enthusiasm and thrill readers have enjoyed ever since the first vampire stories were published seems to have reached a peak with the Twilight series which draws heavily on the narrative legacy of the genre. Stephenie Meyer hardly invents new metaphors in her bloodsucker saga and lets Edward hold views that might as well become a Victorian Age narrative character.
In this seminar we will examine classic vampire narratives such as Dracula and Carmilla as well as modern versions of the theme and look out for recurring or evolving motifs. Are there still palpable molds for male and female vampires? Are vampirism and eroticism inextricably linked in literature? Is there any dynamic movement in the mostly binary role allocations, for instance man-woman, vampire-victim, and protagonist-antagonist?
We will seek to explore these issues with the help of close reading, group projects and class discussion. Some text excerpts as well as topics for presentations and the group tasks will be provided but students’ ideas and contributions are very welcome.

Requirements for participation, required level

- No formal requirements

- Basic knowledge in Cultural Studies and Literary History, for instance about the Victorian Age, Gothic Literature and Popular Culture is helpful

Bibliography

Bram Stoker: Dracula (available online)
Sheridan LeFanu: Carmilla (available online)
Poppy Z.Brite: Lost Souls
Stephenie Meyer: Twilight Vol.I