Final Project: Part I Dracula by Bram Stoker and Hamlet by William Shakespeare, two literary masterpieces separated by centuries, both wield the English language like a finely tuned instrument, crafting narratives that have transcended time and captivated generations. These works exemplify distinct yet equally influential periods in English literature, each employing language in a manner that profoundly resonates with the reader. The choice to analyze Dracula and Hamlet stems from an appreciation of their linguistic richness and capacity to influence literary expression. Both works have shaped my academic and personal journey, particularly in my exploration of dark academia aesthetics and gothic narratives. From a morphological perspective, Dracula and Hamlet demonstrate fascinating uses of free and bound morphemes, as well as affixes, to convey deep meaning and evoke strong emotions. In Dracula, Stoker employs compound words and derivational morphemes to enhance the Gothic tone, using terms like “bloodthirsty” and “undead,” which combine free and bound morphemes to create vivid, unsettling imagery. The frequent use of prefixes such as “un-” and “in-” in words like “unnatural” and “insane” highlights the characters’ struggles against the monstrous and unknown. Hamlet, in contrast, highlights …show more content…
Shakespeare’s mastery of iambic pentameter and inventive syntax in Hamlet contributes to the rhythmic and expressive qualities of the text, with non-standard language forms intensifying dramatic effects and thematic concerns. In Dracula, Stoker’s adherence to 19th-century grammatical norms is complemented by archaic and regional vocabulary, enriching the gothic setting. The non-standard spellings and syntax in characters like Renfield’s dialogue add authenticity and characterize them as outsiders or individuals on the fringes of