An Analysis of Bram Stoker's
Dracula

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Dr. Seward’s Diary - continued

An Analysis of Chapter 17

Tone

The Tone Is Serious And Investigative, With Elements Of Suspense And Moments Of Deep Emotion Concerning Lucy'S Death.

Basic Stats

Intensity Clarity Conflict Resolution Pacing
Thrilling - (4) Crystal-clear - (5) Hostile - (4) A decent amount - (3) Quick - (4)

Basically...

Dr. Seward receives important messages and documentation from Van Helsing and Mina, while Harker investigates the Count's activities in Whitby.

In more detail...

Dr. Seward continues his diary narrating the arrival of Mina Harker with crucial information. Van Helsing, excited, entrusts Seward with Jonathan Harker's and Mina's diaries to study. Mina arrives at Seward's lunatic asylum and the two discuss the situation involving the Count, agreeing to help each other. They work to put all evidence in order, typewritten for clarity. Meanwhile, Harker goes to Whitby to trace the Count's movements and successfully gathers data about the boxes shipped to Carfax from the ship Demeter. Harker feels revitalised to undertake the task of confronting Dracula. The chapter also explores the deep emotional impact of Lucy's death on Lord Godalming and Seward's continued observance of Renfield, drawing a close connection between his moods and the Count's presence.
Characters
  • Dr. John Seward
    • About - Dr. Seward oversees Mina Harker's settling in at his lunatic asylum, receives valuable documentation from Van Helsing, and continues to observe his patient Renfield, whose behavior he finds increasingly suspicious. Seward's emotional response to the phonograph also displays his humanity.
    • Personality Traits - Dedicated, compassionate, and thoughtful, showing an investigative mind and a capacity for strong emotion.
    • Physical Characteristics - His physical characteristics are not described in this chapter.
    • Character Connections
      • Mina Harker - He welcomes Mina at the train station and admires her determination to be part of their quest against Dracula.
      • Professor Van Helsing - Receives instructions and documentation from Van Helsing, accepting the role of a disciple in their shared mission.
      • Renfield - Observes Renfield as his patient, trying to understand the connection between Renfield's moods and the presence of Dracula.
  • Mina Harker
    • About - Mina Harker arrives at Seward's lunatic asylum with a typewriter and documentation that is crucial for their investigation. She actively participates in consolidating and typewriting the evidence, showing both emotional and intellectual strength. Her sympathy towards Lucy's suitors is also highlighted.
    • Personality Traits - Intelligent, proactive, and caring, proving herself instrumental in the quest.
    • Physical Characteristics - Sweet-faced, dainty-looking, with a recent propensity for being flushed with crying.
    • Character Connections
      • Dr. Seward - They collaborate on reviewing the diaries and evidence, establishing a partnership based on mutual trust.
      • Jonathan Harker - Her husband, whom she supports and shares her discoveries with, showing a strong marital bond.
  • Jonathan Harker
    • About - Jonathan Harker journeys to Whitby to investigate the Count's actions pertaining to the shipment of boxes. He displays resourcefulness and resilience as he gathers information and returns reinvigorated for the battle ahead.
    • Personality Traits - Shows renewed courage, determination, and resourcefulness after his horrific experiences.
    • Physical Characteristics - No detailed physical description is provided in this chapter.
    • Character Connections
      • Mina Harker - Married to Mina Harker and shares the investigation duties with her.
      • Dr. Seward - Collaborates with Dr. Seward and trusts him with evidence related to the case against Dracula.
  • Professor Van Helsing
    • About - He tasks Dr. Seward with learning all the details from the Harkers' diaries and entrusts him with continuing the investigation while he is away.
    • Personality Traits - Wise, thoughtful, and strategic with a paternal affection for Mina.
    • Physical Characteristics - No detailed physical description is provided in this chapter.
    • Character Connections
      • Dr. Seward - Passes on the responsibility of reading and understanding the diaries to Seward, showing trust in his capabilities.
  • Quincey Morris
    • About - Quincey Morris is present during the emotionally charged discussions of Lucy's death but does not have significant action in this chapter.
    • Personality Traits - Demonstrates an understanding of social cues and respects the emotional responses of others around him.
    • Physical Characteristics - No detailed physical description is provided in this chapter.
  • Lord Godalming
    • About - Lord Godalming, also known as Arthur Holmwood, is deeply affected by Lucy's death, showing his vulnerability and deep affection for her.
    • Personality Traits - Emotional, genuine, and appreciative of Mina's sympathy.
    • Physical Characteristics - No detailed physical description is provided in this chapter.
    • Character Connections
      • Mina Harker - Receives comfort from Mina regarding his grief over Lucy's death.
  • Renfield
    • About - Renfield, Seward's patient, exhibits curious behavior that increasingly arouses suspicion about his ties with Dracula.
    • Personality Traits - Disquieting, cryptic, and seems to have a prescient connection with Dracula.
    • Physical Characteristics - No detailed physical description is provided in this chapter.
    • Character Connections
      • Dr. Seward - Seward observes his behavior for indications of the Count's influence.