Yeah, I'm just trying to spark some debate or discussion in these forums. I figured that posting something with a high probability of pissing people off would at least stir up some movement. ^_^

I don't necessarily see Mina as a character to be saved by the men. I kind of see her 'perfect woman' image as more of tool to make the vampire and his type all the more evil. 

Think of a thief wandering around a shopping center. If said thief pockets a packet of bubblegum, we don't see the act as all that bad. However, if he steals a sackful of precious jewelry, he's suddenly a dastardly criminal. Even better, if he steals the collection jar for a homeless-charity function.

A villain in all contexts is judged not only by villanousacts, but by the target of said acts of villainy. If Mina had been crass, abrasive, unkept, loudmouthed, unattractive, and mean, her violation at Dracula's hands wouldn't have meant as much to the readers.