Justine
Of the Misfortunes of Virtue
The Marquis de Sade was a French aristocrat and philosopher whose writings explored the concept of extreme freedom, unbound by morality, religion, or law. Often penned during periods of incarceration, his works blend philosophical discourse with explicit depictions, emphasizing themes of violence, criminality, and blasphemy. Sade is renowned for his radical perspectives on sexuality and lifestyle, pushing the boundaries of societal norms. His distinctive voice continues to provoke thought and challenge readers' perceptions of human desire and societal constraints.






Of the Misfortunes of Virtue
Philosophy in the Bedroom (La Philosophie dans le boudoir) is a 1795 erotic book by the Marquis de Sade written in the form of a dramatic dialogue. Though initially considered a work of pornography, the book has come to be considered a socio-political drama. Set in a bedroom, the two lead characters make the argument that the only moral system that reinforces the recent political revolution is libertinism, and that if the people of France fail to adopt the libertine philosophy, France will be destined to return to a monarchic state.
The name of the Marquis de Sade is synonymous with the blackest corners of the human soul, a byword for all that is most foul in human conduct. In his bleak, claustrophobic universe, there is no God, no human affection, and no hope. This selection of his early writings, some making their first appearance in English in this new translation by David Coward, reveals the full range of Sade's sobering moods and considerable talents. This is a fully annotated edition including an introduction, a biographical study, and a history of the censorship of these writings. About the Series: For over 100 years Oxford World's Classics has made available the broadest spectrum of literature from around the globe. Each affordable volume reflects Oxford's commitment to scholarship, providing the most accurate text plus a wealth of other valuable features, including expert introductions by leading authorities, voluminous notes to clarify the text, up-to-date bibliographies for further study, and much more.