Dracula 1897

Dracula starts out with several entries in Jonathan Harker’s journal, which comprise the first four chapters. These entries set the structure for the rest of the novel, which is also told mainly through journal entries and letters. This first section introduces Harker, who is a recently promoted English solicitor (a type of attorney). Harker travels eastward across Europe from London to Transylvania, where he is going to meet Count Dracula and explain to the count the particulars of his London real estate purchase. As he travels across the country to the castle, he notices the reaction of various area residents who are frightened by Dracula’s name. At Harker’s last checkpoint, a coach from Dracula’s castle arrives for him. Harker notes the strength of the driver.