The vampires that appear in modern film and literature are moreso distant cousins of the original vampires of eastern and central Europe than close relatives. Todays’ vampires, for the most part, are desirable creatures; although still evil in some respects, many are upper-class, refined individuals with both a conscience and a definable sensuality about them.

January 13, 2008 (Sun Media / Alan Parker) -- A cold wind gusts past surrounding gothic spires as the Baroness of the House of Dracula touches a bat-shaped earring and sinks her teeth into a discussion of one of her grand, consuming passions.

When the image of the vampire is presented to us, we are filled– even if secretly or subconsciously – with longing. The three most desirable traits of the vampire are his power, sexuality and immortality. In this essay we will be looking at the immortality of the vampire.

Halloween is associated with strange creatures, but none more so than the vampire. To most, the vampire is a myth, an image popularized in movies, television and books. Yet the vampire is no mere Hollywood creation. It is a universal legend.

It was the third day after their meeting. Hour by hour their intimacy had increased. Ethel was sitting in a large wicker-chair. She restlessly fingered her parasol, mechanically describing magic circles in the sand. Ernest lay at her feet. With his knees clasped between his hands, he gazed into her eyes.