Author
Leopold Sacher-Masoch
1835-1895
Leopold Sacher-Masoch (1835-1895) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Leopold Sacher-Masoch
Venus im Pelz
"Venus im Pelz" by Ritter von Leopold Sacher-Masoch is a novella written in 1870. A young man named Severin becomes entranced by the beautiful widow Wanda and begs her to become his mistress in the literal sense—to dominate and control him completely. As Severin transforms into her slave Gregor, Wanda alternates between cruel tormentor and loving companion, pushing him to his physical and psychological limits. The work inspired the term "masochism" and explores extreme power dynamics in relationships through Severin's obsessive desires and their devastating consequences.
Venus in Furs
"Venus in Furs" by Ritter von Leopold Sacher-Masoch is a novella published in 1870. The story follows Severin, a man so infatuated with a woman named Wanda that he begs to become her slave and endure increasingly degrading treatment. As their relationship intensifies during travels to Florence, Wanda embraces her dominant role while simultaneously despising Severin's submission. The novella explores themes of power, desire, and gender dynamics, drawing heavily from Sacher-Masoch's own life and inspiring the clinical term for masochism itself.
Jüdisches Leben in Wort und Bild
"Jüdisches Leben in Wort und Bild" by Ritter von Leopold Sacher-Masoch is a collection of prose vignettes written in the late 19th century. The work reflects on various aspects of Jewish life, customs, and traditions across different European regions, portraying both the struggles and the rich cultural heritage of the Jewish people. Through a series of narratives infused with humor and poignant observations, Sacher-Masoch aims to provide an authentic and multifaceted view of Jewish existence. The opening of the work begins with an introduction that lays the groundwork for the themes explored throughout. It discusses the historical perception of Jewish people, acknowledging past biases while highlighting a shift towards a more humane and understanding viewpoint influenced by liberal ideals. Sacher-Masoch collects vivid observations from different regions, illustrating the everyday lives of Jewish characters, such as Herz Maisel, a simple man navigating life's challenges, and the experiences of a young man named Nahum Bukarest, who becomes entangled in a dangerous adventure. The beginning sets up a narrative framework that promises to delve into the cultural depth and emotional landscapes of Jewish communities across Europe while honoring their enduring spirit amidst adversity.
La Pantoufle de Sapho
"La Pantoufle de Sapho" by Leopold von Sacher-Masoch is a fictional narrative written in the mid-19th century. The book likely centers on themes of love, art, and obsession, set against the vibrant backdrop of Vienna's theatrical scene. The story unfolds within a world where the admiration of a talented actress intertwines with her admirer's intense passion, exploring the complexity of human emotions in the context of performance and personal sacrifice. The narrative follows the celebrated Viennese actress Sophie Schroeder, who captivates audiences with her extraordinary talent. Among her admirers is Félicien de Wasilewski, a Polish nobleman who becomes infatuated with her from the very first moment he sees her perform. Despite his wealth and noble status, he is faced with the daunting task of gaining her affection, which intertwines with a series of events involving a lost pantoufle. As their paths converge, Sophie grapples with the implications of her influence on those around her, while Félicien's longing turns into an obsession. Ultimately, the story weaves a tale of artistic devotion, unfulfilled love, and the lengths one may go to in the name of passion.
La pêcheuse d'âmes
"La pêcheuse d'âmes" by Leopold von Sacher-Masoch is a gothic novel published in 1886. The story follows Dragomira, a woman who worships death as her god and believes nature is cruel and devoid of ethics. She develops a dark religion centered on death, viewing love as confining and life as suffering. Dragomira seeks extreme experiences at the boundary between life and death, ultimately executing her lovers as sacrifices to her deity. The novel blends gothic horror, detective fiction, and theological philosophy.
La Mère de Dieu
"La Mère de Dieu" by Leopold von Sacher-Masoch is a Gothic novel published in 1880. Mardona leads a religious sect as "the Mother of God," imposing strict punishment for sin while preaching divine maternal love. When her devotee Sabatil loves another woman, Mardona's jealousy erupts into violence—she crucifies him with help from his beloved. This dark tale explores themes of maternal power, religious devotion, cruelty, and the blurred line between sacred love and punishment in a cult-like community.
Le legs de Caïn Un Testament — Basile Hymen — Le Paradis sur le Dniester
"Le legs de Caïn" by Leopold von Sacher-Masoch is a novel written in the late 19th century. The book revolves around the intriguing figure of Warwara Gondola, the daughter of a Polish bureaucrat, as she navigates societal expectations, power dynamics, and her aspirations for a higher social standing amidst turbulent historical events. The novel appears to explore themes of ambition, morality, and the lengths to which one might go to secure a better future. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to the life of M. Gondola, a long-serving official in western Galicia, who is both respected and contemptuously handled by the local gentry due to his position. His daughter, Warwara, is portrayed as a keen observer of the world around her, seeking a marriage that would elevate her social status. The opening portion showcases Gondola's dubious dealings with the local nobility and sets up the backdrop of social unrest during the Polish uprisings of 1846. Married to ambitions of power and wealth, Warwara finds herself devising strategies to manipulate those around her, including her eventual suitor, while maintaining a façade of virtue. As the narrative unfolds, it hints at her calculated pursuit of status and influence against the backdrop of a changing social landscape.