Carmilla - Sheridan Le Fanu

Cover ISBN: 9781782275848

Carmilla is a Gothic novella written by Irish author Sheridan Le Fanu, first published in 1872. The story, which predates Bram Stoker's "Dracula" by 25 years, is narrated by a young woman named Laura, who becomes the prey of a female vampire named Carmilla. The novella was initially serialized in the magazine The Dark Blue from 1871 to 1872.

Set in a remote castle in central Europe, the narrative explores themes of sexual tension, gothic romance, and the supernatural. Carmilla's arrival at the castle following a carriage accident leads to a complex and intense relationship with Laura, marked by both fascination and fear. As Carmilla's behavior grows increasingly strange and volatile, Laura experiences nightmares and a decline in health, revealing the vampire's true nature. Carmilla is notable for its early exploration of lesbian themes and its significant influence on later vampire literature, including Dracula.

Featured in at least 2 post-secondary course classes (last updated February 2025)

ISBNs of note: 9781782275848

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