What aspect does the mythological figure of a vampire primarily feed on?

The mythological figure of a vampire primarily feeds on life essence, specifically in the form of blood. This aspect is central to the vampire archetype across various cultures and literature. The act of blood consumption is often depicted as a means for vampires to sustain their immortality and regain strength, while also serving as a pivotal source of life force from their human victims. This connection to blood highlights themes of vitality, dependency, and the intimate bond between the predator (the vampire) and the prey (the human), reinforcing the notion of vampires as creatures that embody both desire and a parasitic existence.

The concept of feeding on flesh, memory, or soul energy does appear in various mythologies and beliefs but does not define the core attributes of traditional vampire lore. Flesh consumption is more commonly associated with ghouls or zombies, whereas memory and soul energy are elements found in other supernatural narratives but do not align specifically with the typical vampire mythos. Therefore, the focus on blood as the life essence underscores the unique characteristics that define vampires within the broader context of undead entities.