“Wake Not the Dead” (Laßt die Todten ruhen) by Ernst Raupach, published in 1823, is a foundational work in vampire literature that explores the perilous consequences of tampering with the natural order. It is perhaps one of the earliest vampire stories. The story was translated into English in Popular Tales and Romances of the Northern Nations (1823) without crediting Raupach, and was often misattributed to Ludwig Tieck in the English-speaking world.

The story is set in Burgundy, France and revolves around Walter, a grief-stricken widower who, consumed by his longing, succumbs to the temptation to resurrect his beloved wife, Brunhilda, through necromancy. Despite warnings to let the dead rest, Walter’s love drives him to disturb the peace of the grave. Brunhilda returns, but she is transformed into a vampire, embodying both the seductive allure and the terrifying menace of the undead.