Mina is presented to the reader throughout the novel as the ideal, typical Victorian woman, innocent and virtuous. Women at this time were expected to behave according to strict moral codes, and there were very defined roles for men and women. Whilst women were not expected to have sexual feelings, and stayed at home, men took on the role of provider and protector.
Marjorie Howes, the critic claimed; "the novel is preoccupied with gender roles." Throughout the novel we grow increasingly fond of Mina, as we read her diary entries and letters we hear her personal thoughts. This is typical of Gothic literature, and similar to "The Woman In White", which may have influenced Stoker. Through these diary entries we see Mina's desperation to be included in the group in a quest to fight Dracula.
Mina says she disapproves of the New Woman, which was a new idea in Victorian times, involving women's rights and equality, and she laughs at the idea of a woman proposing to a man. However, we can see aspects of her personality that reflect the traits of a New Woman. She has learnt shorthand, types, and seems to have an equal relationship with her husband.
However, we are constantly reminded that Mina is stereotyped as a Victorian woman:.
"No one but a woman can help a man when he is in trouble of heart.".
Comments such as these show the Victorian opinions of women, which were that they should be virtuous and innocent, with sexual restraint. As Van Helsing points out, the men are very concerned with protecting Mina when they realise she at risk of an attack from Dracula.
"I must be careful not to frighten her".
Although Mina did seem to have an equal role with Jonathan, and she actually took on the role of protector at one point when Jonathan had a nervous breakdown after escaping Dracula's castle, as the novel progresses she is increasingly viewed by the men as weak and needing protection.
