Dracula and Twilight Comparison

Introduction

The representation and legend of vampires have been discussed and been used to juggle human imagination over the years. Graphic novels such as in the adaptations of Twilight and Dracula have extended the folklore and human imagination concerning the ‘creatures,’ the vampires. A significant comparison is on the graphic novel formats whereby even the cover portrays the different perspectives the authors have on vampires (Koren, 2014). They both have fantastic artistic skills from the panels, texts, and drawings. However, the representation of the emotions and frames differ.

In Twilight, artistic skills are attractive, with the presence of emotions in the pictures. The color used is black and white, which seems boring, but with light washes depending on every moment and emotions. However, the lettering is far-fetched, with some balloons placed on the character’s faces (Kim, 2010). In Dracula, there seems to affect the reader as it includes readable and attractive sketches from the color used. However, in some instance, the emotions expressed in the original book seems to be fading. For instance, when Dracula transforms into a wolf and bat, there should be the power in it, however, when illustrated, that power lessens and fades (Jason Cobley, 2012).

Similarities

In the two novels, the main characters are vampires, they are portrayed to have pale skins, and when touched, the authors describe their reaction as cold as ice. They are described to take blood and are afraid of the sunlight, though, for different reasons (Kim, 2010). Secondly, these vampires are created powerful, meaning they have superhuman characteristics and abilities. They are portrayed to have superhuman strength. Despite sharing this factor, their superhuman abilities are different as they contrast. Moreover, vampires in both novels are evil, although some in Twilight are portrayed to be good.

The storyline of the two novels is similar, as the authors enhance and maintain the theme of love throughout their stories. For instance, in Dracula, we see Jonathan trying to save Mina because he loves her. Likewise, in Twilight, Edward tries to protect Bella out of love (Jason Cobley, 2012). Therefore, the storylines possess love theme and addiction, in not only bloodsucking but also possession of love. This aspect shows that the two authors brought about the ‘female heroine’ aspect.

Contrast 

The characters in the two novels are vampires but differ in many ways. Primarily, their physical characteristics differ in that in Dracula, the vampires are described to have very sharp fingernails, they are hairy, make people feel uncomfortable due to their evil image, but very attractive. On the other hand, in Twilight, vampires are portrayed as flawless, glamorous, and have a perfect physical appearance. However, they stand out in the crowd, thus not ordinary as they are described to be ‘chalky pale.’ Secondly, despite the commonality of fearing sunlight, as indicated above, they do so for different reasons. This is because, in Dracula, when vampires are exposed to the sunlight, their powers are limited.

Thirdly, as seen above, the vampires have different superhuman abilities; in that, vampires in Dracula can walk on walls and even take different forms such as wolf or bats while these are not possible for vampires in Twilight. In Twilight, vampires have special abilities such as appearing younger throughout their lives, which is not possible for vampires in Dracula.

The setting of the novels contrasts in that in Dracula; the setting is historical and Victorian with much relevance to gothic literature. However, in Twilight, there is a modern and ‘pop culture’ type of setting, with teenagers prevalent. In addition, due to the different settings, the vampires in Dracula are hardly glamourized, while in Twilight, they are described as glamourous and with perfect appearances.

References

Jason Cobley, B. S. (2012). Dracula The Graphic Novel: Original Text (Classical Comics). Classical Comics.

Kim, Y. S. (2010). Twilight: The Graphic Novel, Vol. 1. Yen Press.

Koren, J. (2014, October 24). Graphic novels and other formats. Retrieved from https://www.slideshare.net/joh5700/graphic-novels-and-other-formats