When Aubrey, a young Englishman, meets a mysterious man from London high
society, Lord Ruthven, they become unlikely friends. Shortly after,
Aubrey decides to accompany the noble on a trip to Rome. However, when a
moral disagreement arises between the two, Aubrey decides to leave
Ruthven in Rome, and goes off on his own. Arriving in Greece, Aubrey
meets Ianthe, and the two share an immediate connection. After sharing
stories and an evening together, Aubrey and Ianthe part ways for the
night. However, after a devastating turn of events, Aubrey and Ruthven
reunite, and Aubrey, ready to leave Greece behind, is happy to travel
with the older man once again. But as they continue their travels,
Aubrey slowly begins to notice Ruthven's odd behavior. After even more
consideration, Aubrey realizes a shocking pattern--nearly everyone that
Ruthven comes in close contact to meets an untimely end. Afraid of his
newly acquired knowledge, Aubrey attempts to distance himself from the
suspicious man, though he is forced to reconsider his efforts when
Ruthven expresses intent to marry Aubrey's sister.
First published under Lord Byron's name, The Vampyre rose to immediate
commercial success. However, though he was inspired by a discarded piece
of Lord Bryon's work, both authors have since admitted that John William
Polidori was the true writer of The Vampyre. Considered to be the
first work of vampire fiction, The Vampyre had an immense role in
shaping vampires as literary figures, influencing the canonical rules of
vampires that many still follow today. First published in 1819,
Polidori's The Vampyre remains to be a thrilling and spooky read
centuries later, and has since inspired both film and theater
adaptations. With mystery and eerie suspense, Polidori's work is an
extraordinary example of 19th century gothic horror.
This edition of The Vampyre by John William Polidori features a
striking new cover design and is printed in a font that is both modern
and readable. With these accommodations, The Vampyre caters to a
contemporary audience while preserving the original innovation of John
William Polidori's work.
