Casanova's Homecoming By: Arthur Schnitzler (1862-1931)
Casanova's Homecoming" by Arthur Schnitzler is a captivating and insightful novel that explores the complexities of love, desire, and personal growth. Set in 18th century Venice, the story follows the renowned womanizer Giacomo Casanova as he returns to his hometown after years of exile. From the very beginning, Schnitzler's writing style engulfs readers in a rich and vivid world filled with ornate descriptions of Venetian society. The author masterfully recreates the lavish and decadent atmosphere of the city, painting a picture of a place where seduction and intrigue are the order of the day. One of the most remarkable aspects of the novel is the depth and complexity of its characters. Casanova, the enigmatic protagonist, is portrayed with great nuance. On the surface, he is a charming and charismatic seducer, but beneath his façade lies a deeply introspective and self-aware individual. Through his encounters and experiences, readers are invited to explore the dichotomy between the public persona and the private self. Schnitzler's exploration of love and desire is both enlightening and thought-provoking. The novel raises questions about the nature of human relationships, the boundaries of fidelity, and the inherent contradictions of human nature. As Casanova navigates through various romantic entanglements, readers are exposed to the complexities of emotions and the often unpredictable trajectory of love. Another noteworthy aspect of the book is its literary structure. Divided into six sections, each representing a different stage of Casanova's homecoming, the novel employs a non-linear narrative that adds depth and complexity to the story. This unconventional structure enhances the reader's engagement, as they become active participants in deciphering the underlying meanings and motivations behind the characters' actions. While "Casanova's Homecoming" might not be for everyone, particularly those who prefer fast-paced plots, it is a rewarding read for those who appreciate rich character development and philosophical discussions on love and desire. Schnitzler's ability to delve into the human psyche and expose the vulnerabilities and contradictions of his characters is unparalleled. Overall, "Casanova's Homecoming" is an enthralling tale that offers readers a unique perspective on love, desire, and personal transformation. With its masterful writing, complex characters, and profound exploration of human relationships, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who takes the time to dive into its pages. First Page: CASANOVA'S HOMECOMING By Arthur Schnitzler 1922 The Translation of this book was made by EDEN AND CEDAR PAUL CHAPTER ONE. Casanova was in his fifty third year. Though no longer driven by the lust of adventure that had spurred him in his youth, he was still hunted athwart the world, hunted now by a restlessness due to the approach of old age. His yearning for Venice, the city of his birth, grew so intense that, like a wounded bird slowly circling downwards in its death flight, he began to move in ever narrowing circles. Again and again, during the last ten years of his exile, he had implored the Supreme Council for leave to return home. Erstwhile, in the drafting of these petitions a work in which he was a past master a defiant, wilful spirit seemed to have guided his pen; at times even he appeared to take a grim delight in his forwardness. But of late his requests had been couched in humble, beseeching words which displayed, ever more plainly, the ache of homesickness and genuine repentance. The sins of his earlier years (the most unpardonable to the Venetian councillors was his free thinking, not his dissoluteness, or quarrelsomeness, or rather sportive knavery) were by degrees passing into oblivion, and so Casanova had a certain amount of confidence that he would receive a hearing... Continue reading book >>

Casanova's Homecoming By: Arthur Schnitzler (1862-1931)

Casanova's Homecoming" by Arthur Schnitzler is a captivating and insightful novel that explores the complexities of love, desire, and personal growth. Set in 18th century Venice, the story follows the renowned womanizer Giacomo Casanova as he returns to his hometown after years of exile.

From the very beginning, Schnitzler's writing style engulfs readers in a rich and vivid world filled with ornate descriptions of Venetian society. The author masterfully recreates the lavish and decadent atmosphere of the city, painting a picture of a place where seduction and intrigue are the order of the day.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the novel is the depth and complexity of its characters. Casanova, the enigmatic protagonist, is portrayed with great nuance. On the surface, he is a charming and charismatic seducer, but beneath his façade lies a deeply introspective and self-aware individual. Through his encounters and experiences, readers are invited to explore the dichotomy between the public persona and the private self.

Schnitzler's exploration of love and desire is both enlightening and thought-provoking. The novel raises questions about the nature of human relationships, the boundaries of fidelity, and the inherent contradictions of human nature. As Casanova navigates through various romantic entanglements, readers are exposed to the complexities of emotions and the often unpredictable trajectory of love.

Another noteworthy aspect of the book is its literary structure. Divided into six sections, each representing a different stage of Casanova's homecoming, the novel employs a non-linear narrative that adds depth and complexity to the story. This unconventional structure enhances the reader's engagement, as they become active participants in deciphering the underlying meanings and motivations behind the characters' actions.

While "Casanova's Homecoming" might not be for everyone, particularly those who prefer fast-paced plots, it is a rewarding read for those who appreciate rich character development and philosophical discussions on love and desire. Schnitzler's ability to delve into the human psyche and expose the vulnerabilities and contradictions of his characters is unparalleled.

Overall, "Casanova's Homecoming" is an enthralling tale that offers readers a unique perspective on love, desire, and personal transformation. With its masterful writing, complex characters, and profound exploration of human relationships, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who takes the time to dive into its pages.

First Page:

CASANOVA'S HOMECOMING

By Arthur Schnitzler

1922

The Translation of this book was made by EDEN AND CEDAR PAUL

CHAPTER ONE.

Casanova was in his fifty third year. Though no longer driven by the lust of adventure that had spurred him in his youth, he was still hunted athwart the world, hunted now by a restlessness due to the approach of old age. His yearning for Venice, the city of his birth, grew so intense that, like a wounded bird slowly circling downwards in its death flight, he began to move in ever narrowing circles. Again and again, during the last ten years of his exile, he had implored the Supreme Council for leave to return home. Erstwhile, in the drafting of these petitions a work in which he was a past master a defiant, wilful spirit seemed to have guided his pen; at times even he appeared to take a grim delight in his forwardness. But of late his requests had been couched in humble, beseeching words which displayed, ever more plainly, the ache of homesickness and genuine repentance.

The sins of his earlier years (the most unpardonable to the Venetian councillors was his free thinking, not his dissoluteness, or quarrelsomeness, or rather sportive knavery) were by degrees passing into oblivion, and so Casanova had a certain amount of confidence that he would receive a hearing... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Adventure
Fiction
Literature

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Wikipedia – Arthur Schnitzler
Wikipedia – Casanova's Homecoming

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