Death in Venice (Tod in Venedig)

Act I

The writer Gustav von Aschenbach, in the midst of a creative crisis, decides to embark upon a trip and is advised by a stranger to travel south. On the way to Venice, Aschenbach encounters a number of illustrious figures, including a rather suspicious gondolier. Although cordially welcomed at the hotel, he is bothered by the stifling heat. Among the clamorous hotel guests, Aschenbach's eye is suddenly caught by a boy whose beauty embodies the classical ideal. Aschenbach gradually reconciles himself with his situation. However, the obtrusive panhandling quickly becomes a nuisance and he decides, almost in a panic, to travel on. Yet, when he discovers that his luggage has been incorrectly sent ahead, Aschenbach interprets this as an act of fate directing him to return to the hotel. He is plagued by melancholic thoughts. Eventually he resigns himself to dedicating his days to the light and to Apollo. A sport competition becomes, for Aschenbach, a mystery play in honour of Apollo. Tadzio wins in every discipline. Aschenbach is overwhelmed by the self-realisation that he loves this boy.

Act II

Aschenbach struggles with his admission of love, attempting to rationalise the experience. At the barber, Aschenbach gets word of an epidemic afflicting Venice; it is advisable to leave the city. Aschenbach decides to not warn Tadzio and his family, so that they do not leave. Feverish and euphoric, he follows Tadzio through the alleys and canals back to the hotel, where a group of street musicians are entertaining the guests. As Aschenbach realises how badly the epidemic has struck the city, he is pained with guilt for not having informed Tadzio and his family. When he finally meets them, he doesn't say a word. Aschenbach is visited in his sleep by the voices of the gods Apollo and Dionysus. In the battle for a soul, Dionysus finally drives Apollo back. As Aschenbach awakes, he now sees only the possibility of giving himself completely to the gods. Back at the beach, Aschenbach loses himself in watching the boy. At the barber, the ageing writer decides on a superficial, cosmetic rejuvenation. The few remaining hotel guests are ready to depart and Aschenbach goes to the beach one last time ...

Translated by Daniel J. Palmer