Vampire Folklore Versus Storyline in 'The Vampire Diaries’

The Vampire Diaries is a hit American television series based on the novel series by L.J. Smith. The show follows Elena Gilbert’s life as she’s caught in a love triangle between two vampire brothers, Stefan and Damon Salvatore.

The show has earned critical acclaim and a large fan base over its 8-season run. Many viewers of the show are intrigued by the vampires featured. 

Here are some interesting facts about the vampires featured in The Vampire Diaries:

The Power of Garlic

In folklore, garlic was believed to ward off evil spirits and vampires. This is why garlic was used as protection against vampires. In the series The Vampire Diaries, garlic does not affect the vampires.

Their Blood Thirst

The series' vampires need blood to survive. The more they consume, the longer they live. If a vampire goes too long without feeding, they will die. This has been the same as the most famous depiction of vampires in movies.

Their Powerful Fangs

In folklore and some popular depictions of vampires, their fangs are powerful and are clearly seen and shown throughout the movie. However, in Vampire Diaries, their fangs are kept hidden and are not shown until they are about to feed. This gives the vampires a more human and less intimidating appearance. Their fangs can only be seen when they have already fed on blood or when they use them during fights with other vampires.

The Sunlight

In many vampire movies, it is shown that vampires are vulnerable to sunlight. They are usually shown as having to stay in the dark while they sleep during the day. In The Vampire Diaries, sunlight does not affect the vampires. They can walk around during the day and do their business without fearing being burned or harmed.

The Civil War Vampires

It makes sense when Stefan and Damon are seen in the army as vampires. The American Civil War took place between 1861 and 1865, so it is practical that the Salvatore brothers became vampires during this time period.

Traditional Religious Symbols

They are immune to traditional vampire weaknesses. This includes being unable to enter a home without permission and being harmed by crucifixes. In the series, you can see them walking through the front door and not being harmed. In folklore, a vampire cannot enter a home without an invitation from someone who lives there.

Reflections

According to folklore, vampires do not have reflections in mirrors or photographs because they do not have souls. The idea of a vampire having no reflection is integral to many legends and myths. But in Vampire Diaries, the vampires can be seen in mirrors and photographs. This is because the show takes place in a modern world where such things are commonplace, and it would be unrealistic for them not to exist.

Conclusion

Now that you've read this article, we hope that you have a better understanding of the vampires featured in The Vampire Diaries. This show has been praised for its characters and storylines, but it is also interesting to know the little details behind them. We hope that you found this article informative and entertaining!

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