Death in Venice: A Winter’s Tale of Obsession and Art

Start the new year with a dive into one of the most haunting and elegant novellas of the 20th century: Death in Venice by Thomas Mann. Set against the vibrant yet decaying backdrop of Venice, this story follows Gustav von Aschenbach, a celebrated German writer, as he grapples with aging, creative stagnation, and an intoxicating, forbidden infatuation with a young boy named Tadzio. Mann's masterful prose explores themes of beauty, obsession, mortality, and the tension between discipline and desire.

Published in 1912, Death in Venice was inspired by Mann’s own travels to Venice and reflects his deep engagement with classical mythology, German Romanticism, and early 20th-century anxieties. This work also reveals Mann's philosophical wrestling with notions of art, ethics, and the human psyche.

Whether you’re a first-time reader or revisiting this classic, our discussion will delve into its layered meanings, the cultural and historical backdrop of its creation, and its continuing resonance in literature and art. A perfect winter read for those who enjoy grappling with timeless questions in the form of a beautifully crafted tale.