Who was influential in popularizing the term 'vampire' in the late 19th century?

The popularity of the term 'vampire' and its cultural understanding in the late 19th century is significantly attributed to Bram Stoker, particularly through his novel "Dracula," published in 1897. Stoker's work is often credited with shaping modern perceptions of vampires, blending established folklore with his own creative narrative. His portrayal of Count Dracula as both aristocratic and sinister helped to create a lasting image of the vampire in literature and popular culture, establishing many tropes that are still associated with vampires today, such as their character traits, vulnerabilities, and the thematic elements of seduction and menace.

While vampire folklore certainly existed prior to Stoker, it was his literary contributions that crystallized and popularized the idea in a way that resonated with the public and influenced countless adaptations and interpretations of the vampire mythos in subsequent years. Wealthy Medieval landowners are not directly related to the popularization of the term, although they may have been part of earlier vampire stories. Nathaniel Hawthorne, known for his moral allegories and exploration of themes such as guilt and sin, did not specifically focus on vampires in a way that would promote the term during that era. Thus, Bram Stoker stands out as the key figure in bringing