Vampire Myths: Unmasking Antisemitism with Deke Moulton

In this enlightening discussion with author Deke Moulton, we will delve into the often overlooked and shadowy facets of vampire lore. Vampire tales have captivated audiences for centuries, yet they weave a darker history of anti-Semitism within their narratives.

Join us to dissect the roots of this issue, identify problematic clichés, and seek ways to reshape the narrative into a more inclusive and enlightened perspective.

Deke Moulton – Author and Raconteur

Deke Moulton is a celebrated writer of two riveting narratives, “Refusing to Be Your Monster” and the upcoming “Benji Zeb – A Native Werewolf.” Both works cast a fresh perspective on the monster myths of vampires and werewolves through a Jewish lens. Hailing from the vibrant city of Chicago, Deke, whose full name is Dickla, ventured on a unique path leading to his current success as a prolific writer.

Dickla’s eclectic background includes a stint as a book conservation intern at the Adler Planetarium, honing skills behind the scenes. A surprising twist in their life came with serving in the U.S. Army, opening up a world of experiences that continue to enrich their storytelling. While in service, Dickla had the good fortune to spend three years in Italy and to study Arabic at the Defense Language Institute. Additionally, serving as a drill sergeant bestowed upon them unique professional acumen.

Now residing in the enchanting Pacific Northwest, the region’s cozy ambiance and frequently drizzling skies profoundly influence their creative output, infusing their works with distinctive charm and atmospheric depth.

A Sojourn Through the Shadowy Realms

Vampires, a global phenomenon, encompass varied myths from around the world, including those from China and Africa, which have no connection to Jewish portrayals. Upon closer inspection, a stark contrast emerges between these myths and the traditional European vampire archetype:

• Acknowledging that vampire myths aren’t inherently anti-Semitic offers a sigh of relief. Yet the challenge lies in pinpointing where problematic elements emerge. Often, this stems from confusion, as the popular notion of vampire tales primarily draws from European mythology. Modern storytellers sometimes inadvertently perpetuate stereotypes by relying on European folklore, which frequently depicts non-Christian and non-white characters as villains;
• A classic case in point is found in Bram Stoker’s “Dracula.” Stoker endowed Dracula with traits such as curly hair, prominent bushy eyebrows, and a distinctive hooked nose, reminiscent of harmful caricatures of Jews. Stoker’s depiction of Dracula as a parasitic immigrant from Eastern Europe, moving to Britain to corrupt its society, emphasizes the anti-Semitic undertones within the story.
• In the time when Bram Stoker was crafting “Dracula,” bias against Jewish people was quite prevalent in British culture, mirroring contemporary American society’s various prejudices towards immigrants. Stoker’s choice to narrate from a British perspective, portraying immigrants as a societal threat, mirrors the dominant sentiments of his era.
• The intersection of anti-Semitism with vampire legends traces back to the “Blood Libel” conspiracy of medieval Europe in the 12th century. This false conspiracy accused Jewish people of needing the blood of Christian children to prepare Passover matzo, a claim starkly opposed to Jewish dietary laws that strictly prohibit the consumption of blood. The sinister “blood slander” accusation has evolved and persisted into modern times in more subtle incarnations.
• Another recurring element in vampire literature involves a secretive global council of vampires, often depicted as influencing not just vampire affairs but broader government activities worldwide. While some readers may draw parallels to the Catholic Church, this narrative device often stirs up anti-Semitic notions of a “conspiracy,” suggesting that Jewish people clandestinely control global affairs.
• This concept is particularly troubling because, within Judaism, there is no central religious figure akin to the Pope. Additionally, the term “cabal,” originating from the Jewish mystical tradition of “Kabbalah,” becomes entangled with anti-Semitic undertones. When coupled with depictions of vampires amassing considerable fortunes, especially gold, it reinforces the harmful stereotype that Jewish people dominate global financial systems.
• Even seemingly innocuous characteristics like an aversion to sunlight can carry anti-Semitic undertones. Early church claims suggested that gathering for nighttime worship according to Jewish tradition, which starts the day at sunset, was indicative of malevolent and satanic practices.

Recognizing the prevalence of anti-Semitism in European vampire mythology underscores the need for readers and authors to remain vigilant against perpetuating these harmful stereotypes. When readers understand these tropes and their origins, they can actively engage in narratives that avoid perpetuating harmful stereotypes and contribute to a more inclusive and informed literary landscape.

“Don’t Want To Be Your Monster”

Let’s delve into the essence of Deka Moulton’s narrative “Don’t Want To Be Your Monster.” Readers will be transported to a universe where a foster family of vampires grapples with the harsh reality of survival in a society brimming with distrust and bias. At the heart of this tale are two vampire siblings, Adam and Victor, who must navigate a society that often views them as beasts.

• The widespread influence of anti-Semitic sentiment on the European vampire myth poses a significant challenge for readers and writers alike: the ability to recognize and avoid perpetuating harmful stereotypes. While not every vampire trope equates to anti-Semitism, an intelligent approach is necessary, considering their historical roots in European folklore;
• Consider this: if vampires are portrayed as unable to withstand sunlight because it represents evil, one might unintentionally reinforce Christian hegemonic ideology, where light is good and darkness is evil. Similarly, designating night as a time of evil can further cement this harmful dichotomy;
• Moreover, assigning Jewish names to vampire characters might unconsciously perpetuate the noxious idea that “evil” is linked with Jewish identity. Likewise, depicting vampires with hooked noses could inadvertently associate specific facial features with villainy. It is crucial to contemplate why these stereotypes persist and to actively debunk them;
• Another prevalent trope is that of vampires covertly ruling over humanity, which can evoke fear. To engage with these stories responsibly, readers should reflect on their reaction to the notion of control. Investigating real-world groups or institutions that actively curtail human rights can offer deeper insight into the broader implications;
• Acknowledging that many classic vampire tales harbor problematic stereotypes calls for a mindful engagement. Primarily, reading with awareness, recognizing historical context, and the potential for harmful elements is vital;
• For instance, when delving into Bram Stoker’s “Dracula,” understanding Stoker’s anti-Semitic leanings may reveal subtle suggestions within the narrative. The goal is to uncover these insidious elements, which often go unnoticed due to normalization, thereby preventing unintentional harm to others.

While this approach may not halt those intent on causing harm, it empowers readers to counteract the subtle yet damaging stereotypes present in the foundational literature of vampire lore.

Shifting the Vampire Narrative: Exploring Beyond Traditional Mythos

The literature that explores vampire lore, much like various art forms and narratives, carries a complex history that sometimes intersects with anti-Semitic sentiments. It’s crucial to acknowledge and thoughtfully critique this aspect of the genre, while also recognizing that vampire tales are not inherently anti-Semitic. Here are some key considerations for unpacking the layers of anti-Semitic narrative within vampire fiction:

• The Vampire Myth’s Origins: The vampire myth, as we recognize it today, is the result of centuries of evolution, drawing from a tapestry of cultural and folkloric influences. It’s believed that its roots are entwined with Eastern European folklore, particularly from regions inhabited by Jewish communities. This historical backdrop has, at times, fostered associations between vampires and anti-Semitic stereotypes;
• Jewish Stereotypes: Many early vampire tales feature elements that reinforce stereotypes associated with Jewish people, such as a focus on monetary greed, otherness, and distinctiveness. These stereotypes are harmful and need to be acknowledged and countered;
• Modern Retellings: Contemporary writers and creatives have made strides in deconstructing and overturning these problematic tropes within vampire fiction. In works like Anne Rice’s “The Vampire Chronicles” or Stephenie Meyer’s “Twilight” series, vampires have been reimagined in ways that distance them from historical anti-Semitic associations;
• Critical Scrutiny: It’s essential to critically examine vampire literature, taking into account historical contexts and the intentions behind the stories. Readers and scholars should engage in dialogue about the portrayal of characters and themes, including any potential anti-Semitic undertones;
• Intertextuality: Vampire literature often borrows from and references earlier works, some of which contain troubling elements. Examining how modern authors utilize and reinterpret these components can illuminate the genre’s progression;
• Representation and Diversity: Encouraging a variety of voices in vampire fiction can combat harmful stereotypes. Stories featuring a diverse cast from different societal backgrounds can stand against historical biases.

Hence, although the vampire genre has a problematic history intertwined with anti-Semitism, it’s important to approach these works with a discerning eye and engage in discussions that recognize historical contexts and the potential for harmful stereotypes to emerge. Modern vampire fiction has the capacity to offer new, inclusive, and thought-provoking perspectives on the genre.

Understanding the Significance of Conscious Engagement

The deep-seated issue of anti-Semitism that has been historically woven into the fabric of European vampire narratives is a serious concern. Both readers and writers have a crucial responsibility to recognize this issue and prevent its continuation.

• It’s clear that not all characteristics commonly found in vampire fiction inherently promote anti-Semitic views. For instance, in tales like “Reluctant Monsters,” vampires might partake in blood consumption, regardless of their Jewish heritage, and their activities may predominantly occur after dark. Although these traits are not inherently anti-Semitic, they can become problematic when used without a mindful appreciation for their historical origins in European folklore;
• Consider the scenario where vampires are harmed by sunlight because it represents their inherent malevolence; this can inadvertently bolster Christian hegemonic ideology, which equates light with good and darkness with evil. This could further the notion that evil reigns supreme at night;
• Another aspect to examine is the assigning of Jewish names to vampire characters. When the concept of “evil” is consistently linked with Jewish identity, it’s important to question the rationale behind such labeling. Similarly, portraying vampires with hooked noses could unintentionally associate specific facial features with villainy. A reflection on the persistence of these stereotypes is essential, especially when they transcend mere physical characteristics;
• Moreover, portraying vampires as clandestine beings that wield global influence and hoard treasures, particularly gold, can perpetuate anti-Semitic tropes about Jewish manipulation of financial systems. Understanding the tangible consequences of such portrayals is of utmost importance;
• Given the longevity of problematic vampire stereotypes within European culture, readers must engage with classic vampire stories with a sense of accountability. A foundational step is to read these influential narratives through a lens that is aware of their historical context and the potential presence of harmful elements. By doing so, a reader can uncover and challenge the insidious aspects that are often overlooked due to their normalization, thereby helping to prevent the inadvertent perpetuation of harm against marginalized groups.

While such a conscientious approach won’t halt those with malicious intentions, it empowers readers to counteract and debunk the subtle yet detrimental stereotypes found in traditional and influential vampire literature.

Guidance and Expectations

Acknowledging and understanding the portrayal of marginalized groups in classic literature isn’t an attempt to “cancel” or erase these works from public discourse. Rather, it presents a chance to delve into the depths of the human psyche and question why villains are often depicted in ways that resemble real-life despised groups or individuals. This becomes a fascinating venture when examining authors like J.R.R. Tolkien, who despite denying racist intentions, nonetheless wove racist themes into his work.

• The objective isn’t to purge classic literature from our collections but to approach these texts with a heightened sense of awareness. Dismissing problematic elements by claiming authors were “products of their era” or “no more biased than others of their time” may offer comfort to some readers, yet it perpetuates a level of intolerance that marginalized people should not have to endure;
• Readers must acknowledge that sometimes authors fall short and should critically engage with literature, advocating for the publication of books that reject and move beyond these harmful norms;
• In conclusion, I would suggest “Serva Boateng’s Guide to Vampire Hunting” by Rosanne A. Brown. Though vampires in this young adult novel are portrayed as ‘evil,’ the book promises a fresh take rooted in African mythology, particularly through the perspective of Ghanaians.

This exciting opportunity to explore vampires from the lens of different cultures can be both enlightening and enjoyable for those drawn to vampire narratives.

Conclusion

As readers prepare to dive into the tale of Dek Moulton in “I Don’t Want to Be Your Monster,” they are introduced to other enthralling vampire stories. This recommendation will ignite a desire to explore a variety of vampire tales that challenge traditional stereotypes and pave new avenues for storytelling.