Who was referred to as "The Vampire of Düsseldorf"?

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $4.99 payment

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!

Peter Kürten earned the nickname "The Vampire of Düsseldorf" due to his gruesome crimes in the 1920s in Düsseldorf, Germany. He was a serial killer known for his brutality and sexual violence, particularly against women. Kürten's infamous acts included biting and draining blood from his victims, which contributed to the vampire association. His heinous behavior and the public's reaction to it linked him to the mythos of a vampire, creating a connection between his real-life atrocities and the fictional portrayal of vampires in literature and folklore.

In contrast, the other names listed are linked to vampire lore and myths but do not pertain to actual events in Düsseldorf. Count Dracula is a fictional character from Bram Stoker's novel, representing the archetype of a vampire. Elizabeth Bathory, a historical figure, was known for her alleged penchant for bathing in the blood of virgins, but her geographic and historical context differs. Vlad the Impaler, a historical figure from the 15th century, is often associated with the Dracula legend but is also a separate character in the folklore of vampires.