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Bram Stoker's Dracula In Our School Curriculum

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Dear Board of Education,

I am writing to express my concerns about the inclusion of gothic/horror literature like Stoker’s Dracula in our school curriculum. Gothic literature is known for its setting, mystery, suspense, and elements of the supernatural, but there has to be a limit to the elements shown. In my opinion, gothic/horror literature like Bram Stoker’s Dracula should be removed from the school curriculum. Gothic literature has many contents that are unpleasant and also have erotic themes such as sexual scenes. While I understand that some may argue that gothic/horror literature is a classic and has a big historical significance, I believe that its themes and content are inappropriate for students to be exposed to.

First of all, Stoker’s Dracula contains too much explicit content with a sexual theme which is not suitable for young readers. Throughout the novel, there are many times that sexual acts are portrayed disturbingly and unnaturally which may not be suitable for the young audience. (WHERE DRACULA FORCED HIMSELF UPON LUCY).
This act in Dracula can cause phycological damage to young readers and may promote certain sexual acts and can create unhealthy habits as many gothic/horror novels also depict these types of scenes. Another …show more content…

In the text, Dr. Steward states “It was as if the blood, no longer needed for the working of the heart, had gone to make the harshness of death as little rude as might be”(pg. 152-153). This statement by Dr. Steward in the text shows gruesomeness and may be distressing or traumatic for some students and may negatively impact their mental health due to personal life problems. There are also instances in the novel where racial and gender stereotypes are used that the audience may view as offensive based on their beliefs. (GENDER INEQUALITY

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