In his seminal work, “The Vampire in Lore and Legend,” Montague Summers embarks on a meticulous expedition into the shadowy realm of vampire mythology. Published in the early 20th century, this book stands as a testament to Summers’ profound interest in the occult and supernatural phenomena. Through a scholarly lens, Summers delves into the rich tapestry of vampire lore, tracing its origins and manifestations across different cultures and epochs. This essay reviews Summers’ work, evaluating its content, approach, and relevance in contemporary vampire studies. If you are a writer of speculative fiction, looking to research vampire folklore that predates the modern Hollywoodized versions, this is a great book to delve into.
Content and Structure
Summers’ book is a compendium of vampire tales and beliefs, meticulously gathered from a variety of historical and cultural sources. The author navigates through ancient myths, medieval legends, and more contemporary accounts, painting a comprehensive picture of the vampire’s evolution through the ages. Each chapter methodically explores different facets of vampirism – from its folkloric roots to its symbolic representations in literature and arts.
One of the book’s strengths lies in its extensive use of primary sources, including historical documents, folklore narratives, and literary excerpts. Summers’ erudition and depth of research are evident, as he quotes extensively from these sources, providing readers with a direct glimpse into the primary material.
Analytical Approach
Summers approaches the subject of vampirism with a blend of academic rigor and a palpable fascination for the macabre. His narrative style, though scholarly, often veers into the realm of the sensational, reflecting the author’s own beliefs in the supernatural. This dual approach of academic and believer gives the book a unique flavor but also invites scrutiny regarding its objectivity.
One notable aspect of Summers’ analysis is his exploration of the vampire’s role as a cultural and psychological symbol. He discusses the vampire not just as a mythical creature but as a manifestation of societal fears and moral panics, providing insight into the human psyche.
Critique and Modern Perspective
While “The Vampire in Lore and Legend” is a treasure trove of information, it is not without its limitations. Summers’ perspectives are very much of his time, and some of his interpretations and assumptions might not align with contemporary scholarly standards. His views can occasionally be seen as subjective, and his methodological approach lacks the critical skepticism that modern readers might expect from a scholarly work on folklore.
Moreover, Summers’ work predominantly reflects Western perspectives on vampirism, largely neglecting non-European beliefs and narratives. This Eurocentric view limits the scope of his study, omitting a rich diversity of vampire legends from around the world.
Montague Summers’ “The Vampire in Lore and Legend” is a monumental work in the field of vampire studies. Its comprehensive scope and detailed analysis make it a valuable resource for those interested in folklore, mythology, and the supernatural. However, readers should approach it with an understanding of its historical context and inherent biases. As a product of its time, the book serves as both a rich repository of vampire lore and a reflection of early 20th-century attitudes towards the supernatural. It remains an essential read for those fascinated by the enduring legend of the vampire, offering a window into the dark corners of human belief and imagination. Thanks for reading.
C. Wesley Clough
Notes: One of the many vampire cases that Summers goes into detail upon is that of Arnold Paole, which I have previously summarized here.
“The Vampire in Lore and Legend” was also published as “The Vampire in Europe” and is the second book about vampires written by Summers, the first being “The Vampire: It’s kith and Kin” which I may well get around to doing a review of at some point, should these sorts of reviews prove popular enough.
Image: Public Domain picture of Montague Summers
C. Wesley Clough 