Van Helsing: Science Vs. Religion

An argument that is extremely controversial and has been debated for centuries is that of science versus religion. In Bram Stoker’s novel Dracula this debate surfaces through much of the novel, and also within individuals, one being Professor Abraham Van Helsing. How does one remain disciplined in their scientific field, and at the same remain diligent in their faith? Stoker takes time to symbolize van helsing as a martyr for both his profession and his religion, thus maintaining the perfect balance between the two.

It is important to not only understand the debate at hand, but also the time period in which the novel was written. In the end of the Victorian period when Stoker was writing, science was starting to entrench itself as the accepted answer to life, the universe and everything. Science didn't however allow for vampires who are effectively the dead, come back to life. During this time period Catholicism was at war with famous scientist like Galileo Galilee. Van Helsing is an example of a scientist who not only believes in vampires, but also knows that they exist; he is both a philosopher and a metaphysician according to some text. In the novel he recognizes Lucys wound as a sign of a vampire and not just a wound of coincidence. Because he is both a scientist and a believer, it makes the idea of vampires more believable. Van Helsing is a man of belief. He doesn’t believe in killing vampires as though they are ordinary men or women. He carries sacred relects like crosses, and even uses garlic to kill vampires. He combines his knowledge of science and religious to combat villainous creatures like Dracula.

Furthermore, it is important to understand that Van Helsing views his efficacy in science as a gift from God, and to be used for the sole purpose of defeating evil. Though he is a scientist Van Helsing does believe in the existence of evil, contrary to what many scientists believe day. While on his journey in hunting down Dracula Van Helsing states, “Are we ministers of God’s own wish: that the world, and men for whom His Son die, will not be given over to monsters, who’s very existence would defame Him. He has allowed us to redeem one soul already, and we go out as the old knights of the Cross to redeem more. Like them we shall travel toward sunrise; and like them, if we fall, we fall in good cause” (Stoker 156). The professor believes we all have the potential to do well in the world. Deliver those from evil, and be strong in that one day your efforts will not be in vain. God will glorify your efforts, and you shall be rewarded.

Interestingly, Stoker is able to connect the readers to Van Helsing through his prophetic language. Van Helsing is careful in choosing his words when explaining his mythical knowledge to others. He understands the sensitivity in dealing with human intuition and believing in creates that are not of this world. Instead of just blurting out jargin, which would likely scare the reader, Van Helsing eases the audience into believing in something that would otherwise seem superfluous and exaggerated.

Van Helsing is a man of faith and diligence. His former student John Steward in the novel proclaims him as “a professor and metaphysician, and one of the most advanced scientist of his day, and he has, I believe, an absolutely open mind” (Stoker). I believe he is a special type of scientist in that he took the time to master his craft, but still leave room for imagination. This characteristic is important in being able to not only respect the two realms of science and religion, but be a firm believer in them. It takes patience, tolerance, and temperament, but I believe like Van Helsing, anyone can do it.

Works Cited:

Stoker, Bram. Dracula. New York: Barnes & Noble, 2003. Print.