Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu 
Carmilla 
Featuring First Female Vampire – Mysterious and Compelling Tale that Influenced Bram Stoker’s Dracula

Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu’s gothic novella, ‘Carmilla, ‘ is a captivating tale of a young woman who becomes the prey of a female vampire. Set in 19th century Austria, the story is known for its eerie atmosphere, lyrical prose, and exploration of themes such as sexuality and the supernatural. Le Fanu’s writing style creates a sense of suspense and mystery, making ‘Carmilla’ a classic of the gothic horror genre. The novella’s influence can be seen in later vampire literature, including Bram Stoker’s ‘Dracula.’ The narrative is both chilling and thought-provoking, engaging readers with its dark themes and complex characters.