Why have vampires become such a feature of modern culture? Can
vampire-like conditions be explained by medical research? Is there a
connection between vampirism and Freud?
The Psychology of Vampires presents a captivating look at the origins of
vampires in myth and history, and the psychological theories which try
to explain why they fascinate us. It traces the development of vampires
from the first ever vampire tale, written by John Polidori in 1819, to
their modern cultural legacy. Together with historical detail about
Polidori's eventful life, the book also examines the characteristics of
vampires, and explores how and why people might identify as vampires
today.
From sanguinarians who drink blood, to psychic vampires who suck the
energy from those around them, The Psychology of Vampires explores the
absorbing connections between vampirism and psychology, theology,
medicine and culture.