The Vampyre; a Tale

About the book

Aubrey enters fashionable society with an imagination eager to discover extraordinary character beneath ordinary appearances. Lord Ruthven's reserve and reputation draw his attention, and travel gives him further opportunities to examine a man whose influence seems increasingly disturbing. Polidori makes social prestige part of the danger, allowing access and admiration to shield conduct that should invite distrust. The narrative joins Gothic threat to the obligations created by promises and personal confidence. Its compact form moves quickly between fascination, evidence, and the difficulty of warning others effectively. Readers encounter a vampire figure whose menace depends as much on position and persuasive mystery as on supernatural power. The story asks how admiration can delay recognition when the person being admired benefits from remaining only partially known.

• Dangerous influence
• Social prestige
• Trust and obligation

Why read it

For a concise Gothic tale in which the predator's social authority is inseparable from his supernatural threat.

English text