In 'The 120 Days of Sodom', Marquis De Sade takes readers on a harrowing journey into the darkest corners of human desire and moral depravity. A group of wealthy libertines retreat to a remote castle, where they indulge in their wildest fantasies, pushing the boundaries of cruelty and pleasure. As the 120 days unfold, the tale weaves a visceral tapestry of excess, showcasing the grotesque intertwining of power and sexual freedom. With its unflinching portrayal of human nature, the novel challenges societal norms and provokes profound questions about morality and ethics. A provocative reading experience, this controversial work remains a stark commentary on the duality of liberation and oppression.
By Marquis De Sade
Published: 2008
"Liberty consists in the power of doing anything that does not harm another."
The 120 Days of Sodom by Marquis de Sade relates the story of four wealthy men who enslave 24 mostly teenaged victims and sexually torture them while listening to stories told by old prostitutes. The book was written while Sade was imprisoned in the Bastille and the manuscript was lost during the storming of the Bastille. Sade wrote that he "wept tears of blood" over the manuscript's loss. Many consider this to be Sade crowing acheivment.
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“Liberty consists in the power of doing anything that does not harm another.”
The 120 Days of Sodom
By Marquis De Sade
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Marquis De Sade (1740-1814) was a French nobleman, revolutionary politician, and writer, renowned for his controversial and provocative works that explored themes of sexuality, freedom, and morality. His notable works include 'Justine,' 'Juliette,' and 'The 120 Days of Sodom,' which often delve into the darker aspects of human nature and challenge societal norms. De Sade's writing style is characterized by its extensive use of philosophical discourse, elaborate descriptions, and deliberate provocations, making him a pivotal figure in the development of modern literature and a controversial symbol of libertinism and sexual freedom.
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