Death in Venice by Thoms Mann

Add to Goodreads

Title: Death in Venice

Author: Thomas Mann

Genre: Classic Literature

Length: 79 pages

Published: 1912 (original), 1986 (version I read)

Publisher: Buccaneer Books, Inc.

Brief Synopsis: (Taken from Goodreads) Gustav von Aschenbach is a revered author whose work is known for its discipline & formal perfection. At his Venetian hotel he encounters the strikingly handsome young teenager Tadzio. Aschenbach is disturbed by his attraction to the boy. Although he watches Tadzio, he doesn't dare speak to him. Despite warnings of a cholera epidemic Aschenbach stays in Venice. He sacrifices his dignity & well-being to the immediate experience of beauty as embodied by Tadzio. After exchanging a significant look with the boy on the day of Tadzio's scheduled departure, Aschenbach dies of cholera. As in his other major works, Mann explores the role of the artist in society. The cerebral Aschenbach summons extraordinary discipline & endurance in his literary work, but his private desires overwhelm him.

My Review:

I give this book a 4 out of 5. 

This is a short, flowery tale of an older artist who travels to Venice for vacation. While at his hotel, he spies a young, "god-like" boy who throughout the tale he finds himself in love with. The two never speak, merely exchange fleeting glances.

The writing style is reminiscent to me of Henry James, especially considering that the ending is rather tragic. It's a nice, short story that really allows the reader to appreciate the main character's attraction to this young man.

You can purchase Death in Venice through Amazon in hard copy or Kindle format. 

Have you read Death in Venice? If so, leave a comment and let me know your thoughts! 

Please note: I was not compensated in any way for this review. It is strictly my opinion.