Studying Dracula in the US system

Bram and Florence’s descendants welcome students and teachers following the US system around the world. Whether you are reading Dracula for a high-school class, preparing for AP English Literature and Composition, or studying it at college, the Estate’s free materials can help you develop an interpretation of your own. Bram had strong connections with the United States: he toured there with Henry Irving’s theatre company, corresponded with Walt Whitman, and gave an American, Quincey Morris, a crucial role in defeating Dracula. His American connections offer another way into the novel and the world in which he wrote it.

The six chapters below are tailored to the US high-school system, particularly Grades 11–12, wherever you are studying. They include AP Literature, honors classes and Gothic electives. Your teacher sets classroom requirements; Chapter C explains the AP examination.

Example essays: read the nine complete essays, with their worked preparations and teaching notes.