Venus in Furs = Venus im Pelz. Level 3

Austrian writer Leopold von Sacher-Masoch is one of the prominent figures of European decadence. His works psychologically reveal the love dependence and the inextricable link between pain and pleasure. The tendency to gain pleasure from humiliation and pain is named after the writer's surname – masochism. "Venus in Furs" is the author's most famous story, immensely sensual, full of passion and frenzy. The main character, Severin, meets his Venus – a girl named Wanda. He is captivated by her coldness, cruelty, and alienation; he falls in love with her to madness. She makes him sign a contract, by which from now on his life completely belongs to her. Wanda has the right to torment Severin at her first whim. The more physical and emotional pain she inflicts on her "slave", the greater pleasure he experiences. What can the violence and power of a despotic woman over a weak man lead to? Is there a limit in such relationships? This sensual story, still stirring the imagination today, served as the basis for the film "Venus in Furs" 2013, directed by the outstanding filmmaker Roman Polanski. The text of the work is adapted for B1-B2 levels for those continuing to study the German language at the intermediate level and is accompanied by comments. After the story, exercises with keys are offered. At the end of the book is a dictionary of the vocabulary used, facilitating reading.