Although the legend of the vampire has existed, in one form or another, for centuries, Bram Stoker's Dracula is credited with having exposed this legend to the masses. The novel has given rise to the stereotypical character that the world associates with gothic events - Halloween in the U.S. - due to its dark, supernatural characterization. However, as compared with Stoker's novel, an element of the character generally ignored contributes significantly to the symbolism …showed first 75 words of 869 total…

…showed last 75 words of 869 total…ignore, which further comments on the menace of modern sexuality in society. This prophecy of a hazard to society has become more accurate than Stoker might have anticipated, but nevertheless, the theme of sexuality has not found its way into the characterization of the popular icon of the occult. Even so, given his intended persona, one must yet wonder as to whether Dracula is an appropriate figure with which to symbolize a primarily youth-focused holiday.