The vampire story and the blood therein prove perpetually exciting pop cult topics. While arguments about and connections to the Eucharist can be made regarding most vampire literature, HBO’s True Blood series offers an additional and uniquely Christian read in particular by means of baptism by immersion simulation, prayer, organized religion, blood and resurrection, blood drinking from crucifixion wound points, and relationship relating to “makers.” True Blood’s rich religious symbolism may also and arguably help facilitate its overt social commentary on tolerance. In this presentation, I explore the distinct and curiously Christian aspects of the True Blood narrative, comparing it to other contemporary vampire stories and in so doing questioning if religion’s role aids in our connection to, understanding of, or interest in this story.
For the time being, my research includes H. Clay Trumbull (primitive historical blood ritual), Laurence Hull Stookey (regarding the Eucharist), and biblical text. I am also interested in exploring True Blood’s social commentary regarding overcoming prejudice (Ariadne Blayde and George A. Dunn) as a potential Christian message. I have a general fascination with religion’s significant role in pop culture as an influence on, and subtext of, many pop cult narratives.
About the presenterAmy Williams Wilson
I am a West Virginia girl, domestic violence awareness advocate, and momma to 17 year old Nathan and five well-intentioned pets. My book, “The Bite, The Breast, and The Blood: Why Modern Vampire Stories Suck Us In,” was released by McFarland in September 2018. I have been lecturing on West Virginia college campuses for over 20 years but feel a strong calling as the Amtrak Cafe Car lady.