The Vampyre A Tale

The Vampyre was originally conceived during the summer of 1816 when Polidori accompanied Lord Byron to Lake Geneva Switzerland. Polidori served as Byrons personal physician and was inspired to write his tale after witnessing the creative competition between Byron Percy Bysshe Shelley and Mary Shelley which resulted in Mary Shelleys famous novel Frankenstein. In The Vampyre the protagonist is Lord Ruthven a mysterious and charismatic nobleman who captivates those around him with his dark charm. The story follows the young Aubrey who becomes acquainted with Lord Ruthven and accompanies him on various travels and encounters. As the narrative unfolds Aubrey gradually discovers Ruthvens true nature as a vampire. Ruthven is portrayed as an immortal creature who feeds on the lifeblood of others bringing about their ruin. The story explores themes of seduction betrayal and the allure of the forbidden. The Vampyre was originally attributed to Lord Byron by mistake but it was later revealed to be the work of Polidori. The storys success and influence are notable as it established many of the tropes and characteristics associated with vampires in later vampire literature including the elegant and seductive vampire figure.