Here we have a clear reference to the power of the sun over Count Dracula who sleeps in his coffin during the day and rises after sunset. Thus, Renfield's reaction to the setting of the sun is to be expected, due to being under the control and domination of Dracula. In Chapter 18 of Dracula, we discover that Renfield has undergone quite a radical change related to his overall demeanor. In fact, he is so changed that he holds an intelligent conversation with Miss Mina Harker, but soon after, he retreats into his old self and pleads with Dr. Seward to set him free from the sanitarium. While on his knees with "tears rolling down his cheeks" (Stoker, 272), Renfield begs for his life, terrified that his soul will be forever damned to Hell for being in league with Count Dracula. In Chapter 21, Renfield's miserable existence turns tragic, for Dr. Seward finds him lying in his conclusion of Chapter 21, Renfield succumbs to his injuries, for he is found lying dead in his cell.
Although Renfield's life was certainly filled with tragedy, it would not be accurate to say that he represents a tragic figure, such as one would find in Homer or in the plays of the great ancient Greek playwrights. This is because Renfield does not possess a fatal flaw in his character, one which operates throughout the novel; however, he most certainly has many flaws, but none of them ultimately lead to his death.

Works Cited

Stoker, Bram. Dracula. Koln, Germany: Konemann Publishers,…