Death in Venice and Other Tales

By Thomas Mann

Subjects: Translations into English, Venice (italy), fiction, Continental european fiction (fictional works by one author), Middle age, Fiction, Homosexuality, Fiction, short stories (single author), Fiction, psychological, Classic Literature

Description: In DEATH IN VENICE, an elderly, famous, and wealthy writer named Aschenbach goes on vacation. He becomes fascinated with Tadzio, a young teenager who is staying with his family at Aschenbach's hotel. As his obsession grows, and despite warnings that a plague is threatening Venice, Aschenbach remains at the hotel hoping to make a connection with the elusive Tadzio. Mann's novel is celebrated for its subtle characterization, and its exploration of the struggles of the artist--the longing for transcendence and ideal beauty vs. the need to sacrifice for one's art.