"Dracula, Prince of Many Faces: His Life and His Times" by Radu R. Florescu and Raymond T. McNally, Back Bay Books, 1989.

Introduction:

Do you ever wonder where the legend of Dracula came from or how Stoker created such a perfect monster? Unbelievably, the fictional character is based off a true person. The history book titled Dracula Prince of Many Faces: His Life and His Times explains the mysterious background of Vlad Tepes Dracul. Vlad Tepes (Vlad the Impaler, Vlad III, Vlad Dracul, Dracula) was the historical person that Stoker based Dracula, his brutal and bloodthirsty character. The authors Radu R. Florescu and Raymond T. McNally capture the ruthlessness and courage that constituted Vlad Tepes’ life. Florescu and McNally were both history professors at Boston College. They have written extensively on Vlad Tepes. This book will open up one’s interest in medieval history, especially in the secluded histories of Eastern Europe during the Middle Ages.  

Pros:

Dracula Prince of Many Faces delves deep into Vlad Dracula’s life as a Romanian ruler during the 15^th century. Florescu and McNally illustrate their expertise on this subject by exploring Dracula’s life from childhood to his death. Vlad Tepes was a complex figure during his reign of Wallachia. The authors explore the tyrant who thrived on bloodlust from his enemies, but indicate the people he protected looked at him as a hero who withstood the expansion of the Ottoman Empire. Florescu and McNally illustrate Vlad Tepes’ arduous relationship with the Hungarian royal family throughout their landmark book. In addition to Vlad’s life accomplishments and cruel acts, the authors explore the mysterious circumstances of Dracula’s grave, who is the real Dracula, Dracula’s descendants and Stoker’s interpretation of Dracula.

Cons:

The subject in Florescu and McNally’s book intrigues even the casual fan of vampires. They delve deep into Vlad Tepes’ life, illustrating the myth behind the legendary man who ruled Romania during the 15^th century. The main problem I have with this book is the lack of background information on Romania during the medieval times. The complex relationship between Transylvania and Wallachia is mentioned only briefly in the book. Understanding the complexities of Transylvania, Wallachia, and Hungarian influence are essential to completely grasping the world Vlad Tepes lived in. The audience will have to do some legwork to learn more about the political history of this period in Romania to understand the environment Vlad Tepes ruled. In addition to the iota of information on Romania during the 15^th century, the authors touch on the expanding Ottoman Empire and its effect on Vlad Tepes. The authors needed to add more background information regarding Romania, Hungary, and The Ottoman Empire during the 15^th century.

Conclusion:

Dracula, Prince of Many Faces: His Life and His Times opens the world to arguably the most complex and dynamic man to have lived in Eastern Europe. Florescu and McNally illustrate their authority on Vlad Tepes through their collective collaboration in writing Dracula, Prince of Many Faces: His Life and His Times.  The authors enthrall fans of vampires by the story of Vlad Tepes.  The depth of knowledge in this book rivals no other. Dracula, Prince of Many Faces: His Life and His Times illustrates Romania’s true patriot, defending her from foreign invaders (Ottoman Empire) and political instability from larger and aggressive neighbor Hungary. Be prepared to learn about the gruesome, yet patriotic, acts done in the name of Romanian freedom. Fans of history and vampires will not be disappointed by Forescu and McNally’s masterful biography on the true Dracula.

Grade A