Historical and Cultural Context: Latin was once the lingua franca of the Roman Empire and the Catholic Church, holding significant influence throughout Europe for centuries. By using Latin in the novel, Stoker taps into the cultural and historical associations of the language, lending an air of antiquity and mystery to the vampire mythos.
Ritualistic Significance: Latin is traditionally associated with religious rituals and ceremonies, reinforcing the notion of vampires as otherworldly and possessing supernatural powers. It adds a layer of mystique and heightened ritualism to the depiction of vampire culture.
Symbolism and Allusions: By incorporating Latin phrases and references, Stoker creates symbolic connections to historical legends, folklore, and ancient texts. This association with classical literature enhances the richness and cultural depth of the narrative.
Verisimilitude: As Bram Stoker's vampire characters come from various European backgrounds, employing Latin helps create a sense of geographical diversity and authenticity within the world he builds. Using a commonly recognizable and prestigious language like Latin gives the story a broader, international appeal.
While "Dracula" played a pivotal role in establishing the connection between Latin and vampires, other works of literature, TV shows, and movies continued to perpetuate this association, solidifying Latin as a recurring element in contemporary vampire fiction and popular culture.