4 ways Bram Stoker captivates after 140 years

Bram Stoker's introduction of the ominous, yet engrossing 'Dracula,' to people of the 19th century changed the literary landscape.

One hundred and twenty years ago Nov. 8, Bram Stoker was born in Dublin, Ireland. He died after more than six decades on earth, passing in April of 1912. 

The story of Count Dracula, his castle, a battle for human existence and the perpetual state of being among the undead, instances of hypnosis, and various 'facing-off' moments between the Count and Dr. Van Helsing, captivated and caused curiosity among readers when it was published in 1897. Stoker began writing the novel in 1890.

Enjoy a particularly memorable scene from the 1931 cinematic performance of "Dracula"...

It was not his first novel, nor would it be his last, yet, it was the piece that he was best known. His first novel, "The Primrose Path," came to market in 1875. Next was "Under the Sunset," which was a collection of short stories. This was followed by "The Snake's Pass." These works garnered some praise, but nothing along the lines of the excitement generated by "Dracula."

In all, he penned 12 novels during his career. Some of the more notable works include "Miss Betty," and "The Mystery of the Sea."

A first-edition, first issue of "Dracula," with an inscribed message from Stoker to Mrs. W.S. Gilbert. The message reads: "To Mrs. W.S. Gilbert with Bram Stoker's very warm regards, 12/7/97." The lot sold for $51,000 during Bloomsbury Auctions' May 2010 auction. 

Frank Frazetta's "Dracula" original art that sold for $10,000 during a May 2015 auction through Heritage Auctions.

An autographed letter addressed to "Charles S. Potts" on rules stationary of the 1887-1888 Tour of Mr. Henry Irving and Miss Ellen Terry. It dates to March of 1888 and sold for $2,400 during an April 2016 auction through Heritage Auctions.

A unique figural sculpture of mini battlefield of Bram Stoker's "Dracula," sold for $2,250 during a May 2009 auction offered by Profiles in History.