HISTORY This Week: "Nosferatu Rises Again" Featuring Robert Eggers
Release Date: December 23, 2024
Introduction to the Episode
In this episode of HISTORY This Week, hosted by Sally Helm, the focus centers on the enduring legacy of vampire lore and its cinematic interpretations, culminating in a discussion with acclaimed director Robert Eggers about his latest film, Nosferatu Rises Again. The episode delves into the historical roots of vampire myths, their transformation in literature and film, and Eggers' unique approach to revitalizing this classic horror archetype.
The Historical Origins of Vampires
The conversation begins with an exploration of the real historical figure Vlad III, also known as Vlad the Impaler or Dracula, whose brutal reign in Wallachia (modern-day Romania) has heavily influenced vampire mythology. Sally introduces Vlad III’s notorious reputation for cruelty, including his penchant for impaling enemies, which earned him his infamous moniker.
Notable Quote:
Vlad has such a taste for this particular brand of punishment that people start calling him Vlad the Impaler.
— Sally Helm [04:15]
Sally elaborates on how Vlad’s legacy transcended his mortal life, embedding itself in European folklore and merging with tales of blood-sucking demons. By the 1800s, these combined narratives solidified the archetype of the modern vampire—undead beings vulnerable to garlic and stakes, immortalized in literature and eventually dominating the horror genre.
From Folklore to the Silver Screen
The episode traces the evolution of vampire stories from their folkloric origins to their prominence in literature, notably Bram Stoker's Dracula (1897), and their transition into cinema with F.W. Murnau's Nosferatu (1922). The discussion highlights how Nosferatu established foundational elements of horror filmmaking, despite legal challenges that deemed it a copyright violation of Dracula.
Notable Quote:
Nosferatu... doesn't die. It becomes a cinematic touchstone, helps define the idea of a horror movie.
— Sally Helm [07:45]
Robert Eggers on Reimagining Nosferatu
Robert Eggers joins the discussion to provide insight into his latest project, Nosferatu Rises Again. He articulates his intent to blend supernatural elements with rigorous historical realism, aiming to ground the vampire myth within a tangible historical context.
Notable Quote:
If the physical world of the period, the material world, is articulated with as much detail as possible... it makes us perhaps more easily believe in the vampire as a supernatural thing if it feels grounded.
— Robert Eggers [15:30]
Eggers emphasizes the importance of authentic period details to enhance audience investment and suspension of disbelief. He discusses collaborating with costume designer Linda Muir to accurately depict 16th-century Transylvanian nobility, including deliberate choices in attire and accessories that reflect the era's fashion and societal status.
Notable Quote:
He wears a cloak with incredibly long sleeves that's draped over the shoulder... to show how rich you were.
— Robert Eggers [16:55]
Authenticity in Set and Language
Eggers shares his experiences visiting Transylvania and studying vernacular architecture to recreate a believable Transylvanian village for the film. He highlights the significance of Hune Duara Castle as the true inspiration for Castle Dracula, contrasting it with the more commercially recognized Bran Castle.
Additionally, Eggers discusses the decision to incorporate ancient Dacian language for Count Orlok's incantations, working with Romanian expert Florin Lazarescu to ensure linguistic authenticity.
Notable Quote:
His magical incantations in ancient Dacian... turned my spooky poetry into his interpretation of ancient Dacian.
— Robert Eggers [17:36]
Vampires as Social Scapegoats
The conversation shifts to the societal role of vampires in folklore, with Eggers explaining how these myths often served as scapegoats during times of plague and social upheaval. He draws parallels between historical fears and modern interpretations, suggesting that vampire stories help societies process collective anxieties and traumas.
Notable Quote:
They served a very different purpose... to blame for plagues and to kind of deal with the fact that sometimes someone is dead, but their terrible influence lives on.
— Robert Eggers [14:11]
Modern Relevance and Legacy
Eggers reflects on the timeless nature of vampire stories, attributing their enduring popularity to their archetypal resonance and adaptability across different eras. He expresses hope that his rendition of Nosferatu will inspire future filmmakers to continue reimagining and expanding the vampire narrative.
Notable Quote:
Archetypal stories, fairy tales and myths and folklore, is that they always kind of work and they can always be interpreted and reinterpreted. You always can see yourself in them.
— Robert Eggers [25:36]
Conclusion
The episode concludes with Sally Helm thanking Robert Eggers for his insights and encouraging listeners to explore the rich history and evolving interpretations of vampire lore through his new film. The discussion underscores the symbiotic relationship between historical context and supernatural storytelling, illustrating how each generation reinvigorates ancient myths to reflect contemporary fears and fascinations.
Notable Quote:
It's in conversation with the history of horror movies and the history of vampire movies.
— Robert Eggers [26:50]
Additional Resources
Listeners are directed to Radu R. Florescu and Raymond T. McNally's book, Dracula, Princess of Many Faces, for an in-depth exploration of Vlad the Impaler's life and his influence on vampire mythology.
Closing Remarks: Produced and sound designed by Ben Dickstein, and executive produced by Eli Lehrer and Liv Fiddler, this episode of HISTORY This Week bridges the gap between historical fact and folklore fiction, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of one of literature's most iconic monsters.
Stay Connected:
- Website: historythisweekpodcast.com
- Email: historythisweek@history.com
Don’t Forget: Follow, rate, and review HISTORY This Week on your preferred podcast platform to stay updated on future episodes.