What is the primary theme of Bram Stoker's "Dracula"?

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Prepare for UCF ANT3026 Mummies, Zombies, and Vampires: Anthropology of the Undead Exam 2. Practice with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each offering hints and detailed explanations. Excel in your test!

The primary theme of Bram Stoker's "Dracula" is vampirism, which serves as a central pillar around which the narrative unfolds. Vampirism in the novel transcends mere horror; it explores deeper societal fears and anxieties related to sexuality, illness, and even immigration during the Victorian era. The character of Count Dracula embodies the traits and characteristics associated with traditional vampires, such as seduction, danger, and the allure of power, while also symbolizing the threat of the 'other' in a rapidly changing world.

While immortality is indeed a crucial aspect of what vampirism represents, it is more accurately a consequence of the vampiric condition rather than a standalone theme. Additionally, magic appears in the story, primarily in the form of supernatural abilities and curses, but it functions more as a tool in the broader context of the narrative rather than the central focus. Time travel, on the other hand, is not a theme present in "Dracula" and does not relate to its core motifs or character motivations. Thus, vampirism captures the essence of the novel and its commentary on the complexities of human nature and societal fears during Stoker's time.