The Fantastic Art of Vienna

The book delves into the cultural landscape of Vienna at the turn of the 20th century, highlighting the tensions between reality and illusion, as well as themes of sexuality and death. Alessandra Comini examines the Habsburg Empire's complex history and its influence on art and music, noting how figures like Strauss and Schönberg responded to societal escapism. The text also explores the contributions of notable artists and thinkers, including Freud and Klimt, who were shaped by Vienna's rich, fantastical heritage amid the pressures of their time.