Women were not viewed as sexual creatures. Despite having all of these qualities of being an ideal Victorian woman, Lucy was somewhat promiscuous for a woman of that time. On the other hand, however, such female behavior threatened male dominion and their ability to maintain control. Gender Roles in Dracula In a time period where females had narrow gender roles, Bram Stoker wrote his novel, Dracula. In this lesson, we will learn more about these themes through an analysis of several quotes. In a time period where females had narrow gender roles, Bram Stoker wrote Dracula. succeed. Three of them, Dr. Seward, Arthur Holmwood (Lord Godalming) and Quincey Morris, asked for Lucy Westenra’s hand in marriage. credit by exam that is accepted by over 1,500 colleges and universities. And that was no more inevitably bound to marriage. The definitions of masculinity and femininity were challenged as the New Woman strove for independence. Also, Victorian women were expected to be submissive to their husbands. Bram Stoker revealed another side of women that was not often seen. It blurs fixed gender boundaries and challenges Victorian society. Clear-cut boundaries divided the two genders: Men acted “[…] competitive, assertive, […] and materialistic” and Women ought to be “pious, pure, gentle […] and sacrificing.”3. This material is available only on Freebooksummary, We use cookies to give you the best experience possible. Such as, sex, sexuality, sexual liberation, and gender roles. Later, Lucy transforms into a vampire, which allows her to experience the sexuality that has been so heavily repressed. freebooksummary.com © 2016 - 2020 All Rights Reserved. In the Victorian Age conducts of behavior were generally applied to women. Welcome back. ', Chapter 17 - Men are only allowed to cry in front of a woman, 'and covered my face with my hands to hide my tears of bitter disappointment. Bram Stoker’s now legendary novel, Dracula, is not just any piece of cult-spawning fiction, but rather a time capsule containing the popular thoughts, ideas, and beliefs of the Victorian era that paints an elaborate picture of what society was like for Bram Stoker’s generation. Goodreads helps you follow your favorite authors. Dracula also challenges sexuality, by having totally different standards compared to the Victorian-era expectations. Throughout the novel Mina used her motherly instincts to care for both Jonathon and Lucy. Both of these women were very dependable on their husbands too. The fight between conservative and modern factions raised questions concerning women’s role at home and in society - particularly in matters of sexuality. Their application to the men is once more pointing out that the traditional gender boundaries are blurred. To learn more, visit our Earning Credit Page. Therefore, Bram Stoker’s Dracula is a feminist novel, especially concerning sexuality.