Vikram and the Vampire

"Vikram and the Vampire" is a collection of Indian folklore and fairy tales compiled and translated by Sir Richard F. Burton, a British explorer, linguist, and writer, in the 19th century. The full title of the work is "Vikram and the Vampire; or, Tales of Hindu Devilry," and it was first published in 1870. The book is structured around the frame narrative of King Vikramaditya and the Vampire, known as Vetala, a supernatural creature. According to the framing story, King Vikramaditya is tasked with capturing a Vetala who possesses the power to inhabit dead bodies and tell enigmatic stories. Each time the king captures the Vetala, it tells him a story, often with a moral lesson or a twist, only to escape at the end, forcing the king to pursue it again. Within this frame narrative, "Vikram and the Vampire" presents a series of tales drawn from Indian folklore and mythology. These stories encompass a wide range of themes, including love, betrayal, magic, trickery, and the supernatural. Many of the tales feature cunning protagonists who outsmart their adversaries through wit and resourcefulness. Burton's translation and adaptation of these Indian tales are notable for their rich and vivid language, capturing the exoticism and mystique of the original stories. He includes footnotes and annotations to provide cultural context and explanations of unfamiliar terms, enhancing the reader's understanding and appreciation of the tales. Overall, "Vikram and the Vampire" is a fascinating collection that offers readers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Indian folklore and mythology. Burton's translation brings these tales to life for a Western audience, showcasing the timeless appeal and universal themes found in these ancient stories.