An Analysis of Bram Stoker's
Dracula

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Dr. Seward’s Diary - 30 September

An Analysis of Chapter 18

Tone

Sincere, Logical, Intense, With An Undertone Of Foreboding.

Basic Stats

Intensity Clarity Conflict Resolution Pacing
Thrilling - (4) Crystal-clear - (5) Hostile - (4) A little - (2) Moderate - (3)

Basically...

Dr. Seward accedes to Mina Harker's request to meet the patient Renfield, who surprises them with his eloquence and pleas for release. Later, Van Helsing and the group begin planning to counter Dracula, deciding to investigate Carfax.

In more detail...

Dr. Seward finds Godalming and Morris at his home, along with the Harkers. Mina wishes to meet Renfield, which leads to a peculiar visit where Renfield impresses and baffles them with his behavior and philosophical musings. Renfield's subsequent erratic shift in demeanor during a discussion about his release prompts suspicion about his intentions. After the visit, Van Helsing, Seward, and the others gather at Dr. Seward's study where they confirm their knowledge of the vampire threat. Van Helsing delivers a detailed account of vampire lore and the group solemnly pledges to destroy Dracula. Mina is tasked to keep records until this night, after which she would no longer be involved in the dangerous aspects of their quest. The men head to Carfax to investigate, leaving Mina to rest.
Characters
  • Dr. John Seward
    • About - Dr. Seward is the administrator of the lunatic asylum and is keen on the proceedings of the fight against Dracula. He supervises Renfield and is part of the group planning to counter Dracula's threat.
    • Personality Traits - Logical, dedicated, and scientific in his approach to problems.
    • Physical Characteristics - His physical characteristics are not detailed in this chapter.
    • Character Connections
      • Renfield - Renfield is Seward's patient.
      • Mina Harker - Mina is Seward's guest and assistant in organizing the records of their experiences and plans.
      • Professor Van Helsing - Van Helsing is Seward's mentor and friend, working closely with him to stop Dracula.
      • Lord Godalming - One of Seward's companions in the planned action against Dracula.
      • Quincey Morris - Another of Seward's companions in the fight against Dracula.
  • Mina Harker
    • About - Mina visits Renfield upon her request and later, assists in the organization of records regarding Dracula. She is determined to be protected and not further involved in the physical pursuit of Dracula due to the risks.
    • Personality Traits - Intelligent, strong-willed, and kind-hearted.
    • Physical Characteristics - Described as pretty and possessing an easy gracefulness.
    • Character Connections
      • Dr. John Seward - Seward is Mina's host and respects her abilities.
      • Professor Van Helsing - Van Helsing holds Mina in high regard and believes in her capabilities.
      • Renfield - Mina interacts with Renfield when she visits him.
  • Renfield
    • About - Renfield is a patient at Dr. Seward's asylum. He exhibits a perplexing mix of madness and lucidity, making eloquent appeals for his release, which raises suspicion about his motives.
    • Personality Traits - Intense, erratic, and at times showing surprising clarity of thought and speech.
    • Physical Characteristics - Details not specified in this chapter.
    • Character Connections
      • Dr. John Seward - Seward is his doctor and caretaker.
      • Mina Harker - Renfield speaks with Mina during her visit, showing a surprising level of respect and courtesy.
  • Professor Van Helsing
    • About - Van Helsing is the learned leader of the group and gives an extensive lecture on vampires. He exhibits great concern over the threat Dracula poses and respects Mina's contribution, arranging for her to step back from the danger.
    • Personality Traits - Intelligent, resolute, and compassionate.
    • Physical Characteristics - Described as eager with a boyish nimbleness upon arriving. His eyes reflect intensity.
    • Character Connections
      • Dr. John Seward - Van Helsing is a mentor and colleague to Dr. Seward.
      • Mina Harker - He praises Mina for her intelligence and heart, signifying deep respect.
  • Lord Godalming
    • About - Lord Godalming, formerly Arthur Holmwood, is committed to the cause for Lucy's sake and takes part in the planning session.
    • Personality Traits - Committed and determined, he bears a strong sense of responsibility and respect for his comrades.
    • Physical Characteristics - Details not specified in this chapter.
    • Character Connections
      • Dr. John Seward - Godalming is part of Seward's group dedicated to hunting Dracula.
  • Quincey Morris
    • About - Quincey Morris expresses his readiness to participate in the vampire hunt, displaying his usual straightforward demeanor.
    • Personality Traits - Brave, resolute, and laconic, often speaking with directness.
    • Physical Characteristics - Details not specified in this chapter.
    • Character Connections
      • Dr. John Seward - Morris is one of the group members, a companion to Seward.