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46 pages 1 hour read

Venus in Furs

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1870

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Book Brief

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Leopold von Sacher-Masoch

Venus in Furs

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1870
Book Details
Pages

156

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Europe • 1870s

Publication Year

1870

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In Venus in Furs by Leopold von Sacher-Masoch, Severin von Kusiemski meets a widow, Wanda von Dunajew, at a health resort and enters into a consensual dominant/submissive relationship where Wanda becomes his "master" and he her "slave," exploring complex sexual power dynamics, submission, and societal influences on behavior. Includes depictions of abuse and death by suicide.

Mysterious

Romantic

Unnerving

Melancholic

Reviews & Readership

3.9

15,405 ratings

57%

Loved it

30%

Mixed feelings

13%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Venus in Furs by Leopold von Sacher-Masoch is a provocative exploration of desire and power dynamics. Critics commend its daring themes and psychological depth, but some find its pacing uneven and the protagonist unsympathetic. Overall, it remains a compelling and controversial study of human sexuality.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Venus in Furs?

Readers who are intrigued by themes of sensuality, power dynamics, and psychological exploration will enjoy Venus in Furs by Leopold von Sacher-Masoch. Fans of Fifty Shades of Grey and The Story of O will appreciate its pioneering look into BDSM relationships and the complexities of desire and domination.

3.9

15,405 ratings

57%

Loved it

30%

Mixed feelings

13%

Not a fan

Character List

Severin von Kusiemski

A wealthy young man who is the protagonist, known for his introspective discussions on life and philosophy with the narrator. He has a complex, evolving relationship with Wanda that explores themes of desire and submission.

A widow who encounters Severin at a health resort and becomes the central figure in his exploration of desire. She engages with Severin's requests to explore their nuanced relationship.

A minor character who provides an external perspective on the relationship between Severin and Wanda. He briefly explores the dynamics of their connection without becoming deeply involved.

A Greek man with an androgynous appearance who intriguing both Severin and Wanda, ultimately impacting their relationship. His presence highlights traditional and non-traditional aspects of masculinity.

The individual who frames the novella with his interactions and reflections on the manuscript presented. His perspective sets the stage for understanding Severin's story and provides insight into the novellas overarching themes.

Book Details
Pages

156

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Europe • 1870s

Publication Year

1870

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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