Although the character of Renfield is seemingly unrelated to the central plot of Dracula, he plays an important role in Stoker's exploration of the novel's central themes. This article will examine how Renfield's character intertwines with the three central themes of invasion, blood and otherness. First, through Renfield's internal struggle we learn that he is "not his own master" (Stoker, 211). The theme of invasion is revealed by Count Dracula's powers of control and occupation. Secondly, the recurring theme “blood is life” (Stoker, 121), is represented throughout the novel and was played out through Stoker's character, Renfield. Finally, a look at the social construction of the "other" in Dracula and how, through Renfield, who is "unlike the ordinary madman" (Stoker, 52), the Count emerges as the "other" of all the "others". Stoker made the reader see the Count as physically strong and powerful, through Jonathan Harker and his confinement and Lucy Westenra and her failing health. While the reader does not understand all of the omniscient powers and control that Count Dracula possesses over people, they are brought to light through Dr. Steward's accounts of his patient R. M. Renfield. The “strange and sudden change” (Stoker, 86), which occurs in Renfield, evokes the reader to contemplate the Count's influence on the people. Dr. Steward suggests that it is as if a "religious mania has taken hold" of Renfield (Stoker, 87) and is controlling him. The reader is aware that Renfield can feel the presence of the Counts and that there is a connection between them. This eventually leads Van Helsing to recognize the connection between Mina Harker and the Count, who helps them find Dracula and ultimately kill him. Dracula's invasion of Renfield also reveals a weakness in the Counts' power. Renfield, an obedient servant of Dracula, claims to be "here to do your bidding, Master." I am your slave' (Stoker, 88). Renfield's devotion is quickly reversed when he sees the Count taking Mina's life. It is his care for her that drives him to turn against Dracula and try to fight for her. Once again Renfield's actions mimic those of the other men as their goal becomes to save Mina from the invasion that passes through her body. The key to this invasion is blood. The central theme of blood in Dracula has a parallel in Renfield.