TED-ED: How did Dracula become the world's most famous vampire? - Stanley Stepanic

Dracula, created by Bram Stoker in 1897, is the most famous vampire in history. Vampire myths predate Dracula, with origins in Slavic folklore. Misinterpretations of diseases and decomposition fueled vampire lore. The 18th-century vampire hysteria in Serbia spread the myth to Western Europe. Bram Stoker, influenced by folklore and literature, wrote Dracula, which initially saw moderate success. A copyright battle over the film Nosferatu led to Dracula's rise in popularity, with adaptations like Hamilton Deane's play and Bela Lugosi's film solidifying its cultural impact.

What was the origin of the word 'vampire'?

• Roman legends

• Egyptian myths

• Greek mythology

• Slavic folklore

What event in the 18th century helped spread vampire lore in Western Europe?

• A vampire-themed festival in France

• Reports by Austrian soldiers in Serbia

• A vampire sighting in England

• The publication of a vampire novel

Which illness did Bram Stoker suffer from as a child?

• Cholera

• Pellagra

• An unknown illness

• Rabies

What was the main reason for the moderate initial success of 'Dracula'?

• It was overshadowed by Stoker's other works

• It was too similar to other vampire stories

• It was not marketed well

• It was banned in several countries

What was the outcome of the legal battle over the film 'Nosferatu'?

• The film was banned worldwide

• The studio was sued into bankruptcy

• The film was remade with permission

• The film won several awards

Who played a significant role in popularizing Dracula on stage?

• Hamilton Deane

• Vlad the Impaler

• Bram Stoker

• Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu

Which actor's performance helped solidify Dracula's image in popular culture?

• Max Schreck

• Gary Oldman

• Bela Lugosi

• Christopher Lee