In Bram Stoker’s novel Dracula, the titular character drinks blood primarily for sustenance, as it is vital for his survival and immortality. Unlike humans who consume food for energy, Dracula, as a vampire, derives strength and vitality from the blood of the living.
Blood represents more than just physical nourishment for Dracula. It symbolizes life force, vitality, and the power to control and manipulate others. By drinking blood, he not only sustains himself but also exerts dominance over his victims, creating a bond that ties them to him. This act enhances his supernatural powers and enables him to maintain his youthful appearance.
Moreover, the act of blood-drinking in the novel also serves to highlight themes of desire, fear, and the struggle between modernity and ancient instincts. Dracula’s need for blood reflects deep-seated fears of the unknown and the monstrous, urging readers to confront these primal instincts. Thus, in Stoker’s narrative, blood drinking becomes a central motif that intertwines with the novel’s exploration of identity, morality, and the boundaries between life and death.