Weird Tales, Vol. 2 (of 2)

"Weird Tales, Vol. 2 (of 2)" by E. T. A. Hoffmann is a collection of early 19th-century short stories that mixes wild fantasy with a close look at what motivates people. With writing inspired by romanticism and the strange, the stories follow characters as they make their way through detailed worlds. In the opening story, "The Doge and Dogess," a painting of a ruler and his wife starts a conversation about what the artwork really means. The story tells about Doge Marino Falieri, who becomes a leader when Venice is in danger. Falieri struggles with his duties and his strong, troubled feelings for his young wife. A poor young man named Antonio, who has a mysterious history and a hidden love for Annunciata, becomes involved in Venice’s destiny, asking important questions about fate and longing.