The Narrative Structure of Dracula

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Khaled Abdulwahed - 0106791 Deborah Stiles English - The Novel March 8, 2012 The narrative structure of Dracula The diary narrative was chosen by Bram Stoker the author Dracula. It is composed of a sequence of newspaper articles, journal entries, memos and letters. Stoker wanted to reader to experience the story from the characters own point of view instead of his own. By doing so the author is separated from the reader. The reader is able to observe and develop a sense of connection with the characters on an emotional level. The plot progresses in a sequence of letters between characters and hence the reader recognizes what is occurring throughout the novel. An example of this is shown when Mina is worried about something happening to Jonathan Harker. The reader is able to see what is going through Mina’s head because of the nature of the structure. Certain Key points in the plot wouldn’t have been made available to the reader unless they were reading it from the characters themselves. The dairy form allows for an excellent understanding between the different character views, and how the views apply to the different characters. It adds a sense of connectivity between the characters and the reader while adding validity to the novels context. Extensive detailed descriptions about persons and items all through the novel is also a part of the diary form. An example can be seen in this quote, "As I looked, the eyes saw the sinking sun, and the look of hate in them turned to triumph. But, on the instant, came the sweep and flash of Jonathan's great knife. I shrieked as I saw it shear through the throat; whilst at the same moment Mr. Morris's bowie knife plunged in the heart.", Chapter 27, Dracula. As he is explaining what is occurring this leaves the reader in an imaginative state and in turn adds an emotional connection of the experiences
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