UIndy offers low-cost course to the community on Bram Stoker’s “Dracula”

From frightening horror films to children’s cartoons or campy cult classics, Bram Stoker’s “Dracula” has shaped the way vampires have appeared in media since the novel was first published in 1897. This fall, the University of Indianapolis invites students, alumni, faculty, staff and community members to return to the original story through its low-cost, book-club-style Communiversity course.

Communiversity 2026 will focus on Stoker’s Gothic horror classic throughout the fall semester (Aug. 31 through Dec. 18). Participants will have the opportunity to read and discuss the novel that helped define one of literature’s most enduring figures through manageable weekly readings, online discussions and a few occasional lectures by UIndy faculty.

Community members wishing to participate can register here. This course is intended to be taken by those who have completed high school or have an equivalent credential. The registration cost of $10 allows access to the online discussion forum and other course materials. A free copy of the book is accessible through Project Gutenberg.

“‘I vant to suck your blood!’ It’s not from the original novel, the Bela Lugosi film or even the Mel Brooks parody,” said Dr. Jennifer Camden, UIndy English professor and faculty fellow in the Ron and Laura Strain Honors College. “It’s a testament to how influential Stoker’s vampire is in popular culture today. If you’d like to know what Dracula really says to his victims—or explore the themes of power, technology, gender roles, sexuality and fear of the unknown—Communiversity is the perfect opportunity to engage with others in reading one of the most influential Gothic novels ever written.”

Communiversity 2026 begins Monday, Aug. 31. Registration will remain open through Sunday, Aug. 30.

To arrange an interview about Communiversity or if you have additional questions, please contact UIndy’s Director of Public & Media Relations Dan Klein at kleind@uindy.edu.