Venus in Furs. Level 3 = Venus im Pelz

Austrian writer Leopold von Sacher-Masoch is one of the prominent figures of European decadence. In his works, the psychological depth and precise depiction of love dependency and the inseparable connection between pain and pleasure are revealed. The tendency to gain... pleasure from humiliation and pain is named after the writer – masochism. "Venus in Furs" is the author's most famous novella, incredibly sensual, full of passion and ecstasy. The main character, Severin, meets his Venus – a girl named Wanda. He is captivated by her coldness, cruelty, and aloofness; he falls madly in love with her. She forces him to sign a contract, which states that from now on, his life belongs entirely to her. Wanda has the right to torment Severin at her every whim. The more physical and emotional pain she inflicts on her "slave," the greater pleasure he experiences. What can result from the violence and power of a despotic woman over a weak man? Is there a limit in such relationships? This sensual story, still stimulating the imagination to this day, served as the basis for the 2013 film "Venus in Furs," directed by the outstanding filmmaker Roman Polanski. The text of the work is adapted for levels B1-B2 for those continuing to study the German language at an intermediate level and is supplemented with comments. After the novella, exercises with keys are provided. At the end of the book, there is a dictionary of the vocabulary used, facilitating reading.