Justine, or The Misfortunes of Virtue

Style and Technique

“Justine, or The Misfortunes of Virtue” by the Marquis de Sade is a work written in the genre of a philosophical novel with elements of erotica and sadism. The book is known for its detailed analysis of morality and ethics, as well as its deep psychological insight. The Marquis de Sade focuses on the conflict between good and evil, the use of power and submission, and the exploration of human attraction and suffering. The language of the work is rich and expressive, with many dialogues and reflections, characterizing it as an example of high literature. The style of the text is saturated with descriptions and details, aiding immersion into the atmosphere of that time. The narrative structure is linear but contains numerous digressions and episodes intended to demonstrate the author's philosophical reflections on moral dilemmas and social conflicts. The book provokes many debates and discussions regarding morality, ethics, and the role of society in shaping the individual.