April 9, 2026
UAMS presentation will explore late-Victorian medical knowledge, scientific ideas, influence of physicians that shaped ‘Dracula’
CONWAY, Ark. (Arkansas TV) — Arkansas TV will livestream the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) History of Medicine and Science Lecture “Medical Contributions to the Gothic Novel, ‘Dracula,’” Friday, April 17, at 5 p.m. as part of its Arkansas Live initiative at arkansastv.gov/arkansaslive.
Dacre Stoker, the great-grandnephew of Bram Stoker and an internationally recognized authority on the history and legacy of “Dracula,” will explore how late-Victorian medical knowledge, scientific ideas and the influence of physicians – particularly Sir William Thornley Stoker, Bram Stoker’s brother and a prominent surgeon – helped shape one of the most enduring works of Gothic literature. UAMS neurosurgeon Dr. T. Glenn Pait will moderate.
This lecture will examine the intersection of medicine, science and literature, revealing how contemporary medical theories of the late 19th century informed the characters, illnesses and dramatic tensions within “Dracula." Through historical insight and family archives, Mr. Stoker will illuminate how medical thought influenced the creation of the modern Gothic imagination.
Arkansas Live is an initiative from Arkansas TV that brings compelling special events directly to Arkansans via vivid, multi-camera livestreaming. Viewers gain front-row access to some of the most in-demand events across the state, including livestreams from Crystal Bridges, Arkansas Department of Heritage, Winthrop Rockefeller Institute and more.
About Arkansas TV
Arkansas TV, Arkansas’s only statewide public television network, informs and inspires learners of all ages through local storytelling, educational resources and meaningful community partnerships. Local programs can be livestreamed at arkansastv.gov/live and accessed on-demand at youtube.com/@arkansastv, and the distinct channels Arkansas TV and AIRS on SAP. Arkansas TV depends on the generosity of Arkansans and the State of Arkansas to continue offering locally produced, Arkansas-focused programming. Additional information is available at arkansastv.gov. Arkansas TV is broadcast on KETS (Little Rock), KEMV (Mountain View), KETG (Arkadelphia), KAFT (Fayetteville), KTEJ (Jonesboro), KETZ (El Dorado), KETS (Russellville), KETS (Forrest City), KETS (Yancy) and KETS (Gaither).
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