Ever wonder why we seem to be so fascinated by vampires? Arguably the most recognizable blood-sucker in history, Bram Stoker’s Count Dracula has influenced over a hundred years of vampires in popular culture. Watch this episode of #Monstrum to find out how the 1897 novel Dracula inspired other famous horror authors like Richard Matheson and Stephen King, and take a glimpse into how one terrifying creature changed monster history. #PBSDSHalloweek | PBS Digital Studios

Our fascination with vampires has spanned centuries, but it didn’t all start with Dracula. In fact, the first vampires (dating back to the 1800s!) were actually women. This genre of literature gave writers an outlet to explore female sexuality and societal taboos, leading to a cult of lesbian vampire films in the 60s and 70s. Today, TV shows like True Blood and First Kill are reintroducing this trope to mainstream platforms. Joined by Monstrum’s Emily Zarka and special guest Annie Rose Malamet,