The novel Frankenstein, written by Mary Shelley, was published in 1818, while Dracula, penned by Bram Stoker, hit the shelves much later, in 1897. Therefore, Frankenstein came first.
Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is often considered one of the earliest examples of science fiction, exploring themes of creation, ambition, and the consequences of defying nature. In contrast, Bram Stoker’s Dracula is a cornerstone of Gothic horror, introducing the character of Count Dracula and delving into the themes of fear, sexuality, and the clash between modernity and ancient superstition.
The difference in their publication dates highlights the evolution of the horror genre during the 19th century, transitioning from the philosophical and moral dilemmas present in Frankenstein to the more supernatural and societal fears expressed in Dracula.