Vampires and Arithmomania

Vampires are often depicted in folklore as having an obsessive compulsion to count, a trait known as arithmomania. This characteristic is prevalent in various cultures, particularly in Slavic and Greek traditions. The modern conception of vampires is heavily influenced by Bram Stoker's 1897 novel "Dracula," which incorporates elements from Romanian folklore. To protect themselves from vampires, people would scatter seeds, salt, or grains on the floor, forcing the vampire to count each item, thus buying time for escape or waiting for sunrise to defeat the creature. Additionally, it was believed that vampires would count the holes in fishing nets, leading to the practice of hanging nets at home entrances. This counting obsession was not exclusive to vampires; witches in Italy were also thought to be compelled to count, with various methods employed to distract them. The character Count von Count from "Sesame Street" humorously embodies this trait, teaching children to count while referencing the folklore. The theme of counting as a means of defense against supernatural beings is also echoed in popular culture, such as in an episode of "The X-Files."

- Vampires in folklore are said to have a compulsion to count, known as arithmomania.

- This trait is used as a defense mechanism against vampires, allowing victims to escape.

- The modern vampire mythos is largely shaped by Bram Stoker's "Dracula."

- Similar counting compulsions are attributed to witches in various cultures.

- The character Count von Count from "Sesame Street" humorously reflects this folkloric trait.