Justine, or The Misfortunes of Virtue

Book Review

“Justine, or The Misfortunes of Virtue” by the Marquis de Sade is a work that evokes mixed feelings among critics. Some see it as a profound philosophical work exploring the nature of evil and virtue, while others criticize it for excessive cruelty and immorality. The book tells the story of a young woman, Justine, who, despite her virtues, constantly faces injustice and violence. Critics note that de Sade uses shocking scenes to question traditional moral values and show that virtue is not always rewarded. Some believe that the author thus expresses his nihilistic views on society and religion. At the same time, the literary merits of the book, such as its vivid style and complex characters, also receive recognition. Overall, “Justine” remains a controversial yet significant work in the history of literature.