뱀파이어 문학에 나타난 포스트휴먼의 이주와 공생의 가능성

초록

Vampire literature has been a beloved genre since the 17th century, influencing a wide range of media, including books, films, animations, and fairy tales. At the heart of many vampire stories, especially Bram Stoker’s Dracula, lies the portrayal of vampires as migratory aristocrats, transitioning from their ancient homelands to new worlds. In Dracula, for example, the vampire lord moves from Transylvania to England, driven by a desire to conquer the country by converting its women, and consequently taking control of men who fight to reclaim both their land and women. This narrative can be seen as reflecting societal tensions between settlers and migrants, or between the majority and the minority. The vampires’ supernatural powers further distinguish them as a new species that transcends humanity, symbolizing their status as outsiders in human society. In this context, vampires can be interpreted as posthumans—beings who have gone beyond human limitations, suggesting they have "immigrated" to Earth as a new species. This view gains further relevance when we consider that vampires, like Dracula, are constantly on the move, seeking refuge in new locations to avoid the problems caused by their ageless and immortal appearance. The enduring appeal of vampire stories into the 21st century is not surprising, especially as modern society grapples with the possibilities of overcoming mortality and attaining eternal youth through advancements in genetic engineering. This study explores various theoretical definitions of posthumans, drawing from thinkers like Nick Bostrom, Leon Kass, Stefan Herbrechter, Andy Clark, and others. Among these perspectives, the concept of critical posthumanism stands out, arguing that both humans and nonhumans—such as vampires—can be classified as posthuman if they define themselves through relationships with others, rather than through self-centered egoism. This relational aspect is crucial for understanding posthuman identity. Thus, both humans and vampires can be seen as posthuman when they develop relational subjectivity, a key distinction emphasized by critical posthumanists. In the context of vampire literature, the ongoing conflict between settled humans and migrating vampires serves as a metaphor for the broader struggles between majority and minority groups within society. The resolution of these conflicts can only be achieved through the development of relational subjectivity, where both humans and vampires move beyond individualistic concerns to build connections with others.

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