Any investigation into vampire legends leads inevitably to the works of Montague Summers (1880-1948), whose research and writings in the 1920s established him as the subject’s preeminent authority. This study examines vampire lore in fantastic detail, constituting a record of folk beliefs unequaled in its sheer scope and depth. It features all the apparatus of an academic work, including footnotes and references to rare source documents, and it addresses such issues as how vampires came into existence, vampirish behavior, vampire-like ancient myths, and vampires in modern literature. Unabridged republication of the classic 1929 edition. Introduction. Bibliography. Index.
Here's a sample of other books in this Dover category
The Vampire in Lore and Legend by Montague Summers Riveting study of vampirism in Europe — from vampires in Greek and Roman lore to their presence in Saxon England, Hungary, Czechoslovakia, Russia, Romania, Bulgaria, and even modern Greece.
The Malleus Maleficarum of Heinrich Kramer and James Sprenger by Montague Summers Full text of most important witchhunter's "bible," used by both Catholics and Protestants. First published in 1486, the book includes everything known at the time about cults, illicit sex, dealings with the devil, and more.
The Werewolf in Lore and Legend by Montague Summers The first definitive work on werewolfery incorporates an extensive range of historical documentation and folklore. Written in a Gothic style by a venerable author of occult studies, it's rich in fascinating examples and anecdotes and offers compelling fare for lovers of the esoteric.
An Examen of Witches by Henry Boguet, Montague Summers Compiled in the 16th century by France's most ruthless inquisitor, this is the definitive witch-hunter's handbook. It recounts the accusations and trials that led to the deaths of countless victims.
Color Your Own Graphic Novel DRACULA by Bram Stoker, John Green Dracula fans will love to sink their teeth into this version of the classic vampire tale! It features the abridged story in a cool graphic novel format that will thrill colorists of all ages.
The Vampyre, The Werewolf and Other Gothic Tales of Horror by John Polidori, Rochelle Kronzek Lock the doors and turn on the lights! These seven blood-chilling tales are sure to haunt your dreams. Includes John Polidori's "The Vampyre," Edward Bulwer-Lytton's "Monos and Daimons," Clemence Housman's "The Werewolf," plus "The Curse," and "The Victim."
The Book of Vampires by Dudley Wright This fascinating book examines legends about vampire behavior from all historical periods and countries — from ancient Assyria to the Far East, from the quiet villages of Central Europe to the British Isles and even America.
Witchcraft and Black Magic by Montague Summers Historical overview of demonology and the occult defines witchcraft and examines ceremonial practices, the casting of spells and conjuring, celebration of the Black Mass, and much more. A masterfully written, highly readable work for anyone interested in supernatural phenomena.
