Vampire

Book Details

• Author: Ranen Ghosh

• Editor: Santu Bag

• Cover: Ujjal Ghosh

• Publisher: Kalpabiswa Publications & Pratisruti

• Language: Bengali

• ISBN: 9788196328733

• Format: Hard Cover

About The Book

Vampire takes readers on a deep dive into the origins and evolution of the vampire myth, starting with its roots in Eastern Europe, particularly Bulgaria, where it is believed to have emerged nearly a thousand years ago. Initially, these ancient Slavic vampires were considered non-corporeal beings that spread plague and wiped out villages but did not drink blood or turn their victims into vampires.

The book explores how, over time, particularly with the influence of Western Europe, the vampire myth evolved into the blood-drinking, immortal creatures of the dark that we recognize today. This transformation was particularly solidified in the 16th century when it was believed that human blood had medicinal properties.

In the realm of horror literature, vampires first appeared in 1819 with the publication of John Polidori's The Vampire, but it was Bram Stoker's Dracula (1897) that truly solidified the vampire’s place in literary history.

Ranen Ghosh delves into the vampire myth in a series of essays and stories, originally published in Bengali science fiction magazines in the 1970s. This collection, a comprehensive guide to vampire lore, includes expanded versions of his earlier works, bringing together essays, stories, and novels to create an invaluable resource for anyone interested in the subject. This book includes photographs, illustrations, and various other details, offering a thorough introduction to the vampire mythos.

With over 470 pages, this book serves as the ultimate Bengali encyclopedia on vampires. It is an essential read for both fans of the genre and those looking to understand the evolution of vampire folklore.