Since it was first published in 1897 this infamous Gothic horror novel which brought its author international acclaim has spawned a global following inspiring hundreds of films and setting the seaside town of Whitby in North Yorkshire on the map forever. A sickly child Bram Stoker (1847-1912) developed a fascination with the supernatural during his enforced confinement. He went on to become actor Henry Irving s business manager at the Lyceum Theatre in London yet continued to pursue his literary interests. His iconic villain takes his name from Vlad the Impaler (1431-76) also known as Vlad Dracula whereas the vampire s appearance and powerful personality is modelled on Irving. Famous for its epistolary form Dracula went through eleven editions during Stoker s lifetime. Succeeding generations continue to be enthralled and thrilled anew by the tale s dark terror and deeply unsettling undercurrents.