Dracula is an
epistolary novel, written as a collection of realistic but completely fictional diary entries, telegrams, letters, ship's logs, and newspaper clippings, all of which added a level of detailed realism to the story, a skill which Stoker had developed as a newspaper writer. At the time of its publication,
Dracula was considered a "straightforward horror novel" based on imaginary creations of
supernatural life. "It gave form to a universal fantasy ... and became a part of popular culture." It is one of the most famous works in English literature, and the titular character of Count Dracula has been adapted more times than any other fictional figure. The book also established Stoker's reputation as one of the most acclaimed writers of Gothic horror fiction.