Masochism: Coldness and Cruelty & Venus in Furs
Masochism: Coldness and Cruelty & Venus in Furs
- Author: Leopold von GillesSacher-Masoch
- Binding: Paperback
- Publisher: Zone Books
- Published: 1991-03-19
- Edition: Reprint
In his stunning essay Coldness and Cruelty Gilles Deleuze provides a rigorous and informed philosophical examination of the work of late nineteenth-century German novelist Leopold von Sacher-Masoch. Deleuze's essay, certainly the most profound study yet produced on the relations between sadism and masochism, seeks to develop and explain Masoch's "peculiar way of 'desexualizing' love while at the same time sexualizing the entire history of humanity." He shows that masochism is something far more subtle and complex than the enjoyment of pain, that masochism has nothing to do with sadism: their worlds do not communicate, just as the genius of those who created them -- Masoch and Sade -- lie stylistically, philosophically, and politically poles apart.
Venus in Furs, the most famous of Masoch's novels, belongs to an unfinished cycle of works that Masoch entitled The Heritage of Cain. The cycle was to treat a series of themes, including love, war, and death. The present work is about love. Although the entire constellation of symbols that has come to characterize the masochistic syndrome can be found here -- fetishes, whips, disguises, fur-clad women, contracts, humiliations, punishment, and always the volatile presence of a terrible coldness -- these received associations do not eclipse the truly singular and surprising power of Masoch's eroticism.
The More Than Words double bottom line: Every purchase provides hands on job training opportunities, and all revenue supports our nonprofit to empower youth to take charge of their lives.
Shipping Info
Shipping Info
We offer standard and express shipping starting at $5.99. Live local? We offer local pickup on select items at our Boston Store and Mobile Bookstore location.
Returns
Returns
We accept returns within 30 days of purchase for a refund. Simply reach out to us if you have any trouble with your order.
Care Instructions
Care Instructions
We are here to help with any questions or concerns you may have at any time. Reach out to us and we can't wait to help!
can't find what you are looking for...
We Can HelpJoin our list to learn more about our mission We promise never to sell your information to another party and we promise we won't spam your inbox!