The Vampire Book

This comprehensive reference work offers an exhaustive alphabetical guide to vampire mythology, spanning from historical figures like Vlad the Impaler to contemporary pop culture icons including Edward Cullen and Bill Compton. Religion scholar J. Gordon Melton brings academic rigor to his exploration of global vampire legends, examining both the mythological roots and reported real-world cases of the undead. The book delves into the psychosexual dimensions and macabre appeal of vampire lore while maintaining an encyclopedic structure that allows for both casual browsing and deep research.

What distinguishes this volume is its remarkable scope, covering everything from Eastern European folklore to modern television and film representations with equal authority. Readers seeking to understand the cultural evolution of vampire mythology will appreciate how Melton connects ancient superstitions to contemporary interpretations across literature and media. Whether you're a horror enthusiast, folklore student, or simply curious about why vampires continue to captivate our imagination, this definitive reference provides both historical context and cultural analysis that illuminates the enduring power of these nocturnal creatures.