An Analysis of Bram Stoker's
Dracula

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Dr. Seward’s Diary - continued

An Analysis of Chapter 16

Tone

Grim, Horrific, And Tense With Moments Of Poignancy And Relief.

Basic Stats

Intensity Clarity Conflict Resolution Pacing
Heart-pounding - (5) Clear - (4) Explosive - (5) A lot - (4) Quick - (4)

Basically...

The coffin of Lucy Westenra is found empty by Dr. Seward, Van Helsing, and friends. The group prepares for and executes the final ritual to ensure Lucy's soul is freed by driving a stake through her undead heart.

In more detail...

In Dr. Seward's continuous diary entries, the group consisting of Van Helsing, Arthur, Quincey, and Dr. Seward infiltrates Lucy's tomb to find it empty. After an encounter with the undead Lucy, they perform a ritual where Arthur drives a stake through her heart and they behead her, releasing her from the curse of vampirism. Lucy's transformation back to her former pure self upon her true death indicates the success of their gruesome task. Van Helsing closes the chapter with a promise of pursuit and destruction of the one responsible for Lucy's curse, Count Dracula.
Characters
  • Dr. Seward
    • About - Dr. Seward continues to record the events in his diary and participates in the final ritual to free Lucy's soul. He acts as a dedicated friend and doctor throughout the chapter.
    • Personality Traits - Rational, thorough, and compassionate.
    • Physical Characteristics - Not explicitly described in this chapter.
    • Character Connections
      • Van Helsing - Colleague and fellow conspirator in the fight against vampirism.
      • Arthur - Friend and united in the mission to save Lucy's soul.
      • Quincey Morris - A friend who participates in the mission alongside him.
  • Van Helsing
    • About - Van Helsing leads the group with his knowledge and tools for confronting the undead, guiding them through the process of releasing Lucy from her curse.
    • Personality Traits - Knowledgeable, determined, and deeply empathetic.
    • Physical Characteristics - Not explicitly described in this chapter.
    • Character Connections
      • Arthur - Guides and supports him in making the decision to stake Lucy.
      • Dr. Seward - Mentor and leader in the process, relying on Seward's assistance.
  • Arthur
    • About - Arthur is emotionally torn but finds the resolve to drive the stake through Lucy, an act of love and liberation, freeing her from the curse of vampirism.
    • Personality Traits - Loving, brave, and grief-stricken.
    • Physical Characteristics - Pale, trembling, but takes on a determined and strong appearance during the ritual.
    • Character Connections
      • Van Helsing - Receives guidance and support from Van Helsing.
      • Lucy - Was engaged to Lucy and is central to her release from vampirism.
      • Dr. Seward - Mutual friend and ally during the ritual.
  • Quincey Morris
    • About - Quincey Morris stands as a supportive member of the group, willing to face danger and participate fully in the mission to save Lucy.
    • Personality Traits - Brave, phlegmatic, and dependable.
    • Physical Characteristics - Not explicitly described in this chapter.
    • Character Connections
      • Dr. Seward - Friend and fellow participant in the mission.
      • Arthur - Supportive friend helping Arthur through his ordeal.
  • Lucy Westenra
    • About - Lucy, now an undead vampire, displays monstrous traits and actions, but upon her true death through the ritual, she reverts to her original sweet and pure disposition.
    • Personality Traits - Displays cruelty and wantonness as a vampire, as opposed to her original innocence.
    • Physical Characteristics - Described in her ghastly undead form with pointed teeth and bloodstained lips, which then become peaceful in death.
    • Character Connections
      • Arthur - Her former fiance who ultimately frees her.
      • Dr. Seward - Former suitor who is present at her final moment.
      • Quincey Morris - Former suitor and part of the group that releases her from her undead state.