Venus in Furs

Exploring themes of desire and power dynamics, the novella features a nameless narrator who dreams of the goddess Venus, leading him to a conversation with his friend Severin. Severin's dark secret unfolds through a manuscript, revealing his longing for a dominant woman, embodied by the wealthy widow Wanda. As their relationship deepens, Severin becomes ensnared in Wanda's cruel and degrading desires. This classic work intricately blends reality and fantasy, establishing the foundational concepts of masochism, forever linked to Sacher-Masoch.