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Generic item illustration for Crucifix
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Crucifix

the crucifix · the rosary · the string of beads

The peasant landlady's crucifix proves more than a charm when its touch instantly breaks Dracula's blood-frenzy.

Story so far

A Bistritz landlady gives Jonathan Harker the crucifix from her own neck when he refuses to postpone his journey to Count Dracula. Jonathan accepts the rosary out of compassion despite his Protestant suspicion of such devotional objects.

At Castle Dracula, Jonathan cuts his chin while shaving. Dracula's eyes blaze and he lunges for Jonathan's throat, but his hand touches the beads and his murderous fury vanishes at once. The reaction gives Jonathan his first tested protection and his clearest evidence that the villagers' beliefs have practical force.

Appearance

A crucifix suspended from a string of rosary beads and worn around Jonathan's neck; its material and workmanship are not described.

Role

The crucifix is Jonathan's involuntary shield against Dracula and the first supernatural safeguard whose effectiveness he directly witnesses.

Relationships

Jonathan Harker — Jonathan Harker wears it reluctantly at first, then survives Dracula's sudden attack because it lies against his throat.
Count Dracula — Contact with the beads instantly repels Count Dracula and extinguishes his frenzy at the sight of fresh blood.
Sources — 2 recorded facts, by chapter
Chapter 1
  • A frightened innkeeper's wife gives Jonathan her own crucifix as a maternal blessing and defense against the evil ahead.
Chapter 2
  • The peasant landlady's crucifix proves more than a charm when its touch instantly breaks Dracula's blood-frenzy.
Character portrait