ABSTRACT
Sadism is frequently misunderstood as the practice of administering punishment, or causing physical pain, as a substitute for "normal" sexual activity. True sadism, however, is far more concerned with the infliction of psychological cruelty, and this is what is most crucial when examining Rachilde's heroine and her relationships with men. The link between physical pain and psychological cruelty is a key attribute in Mary Barbe's existence, and the pleasure she receives from the execution of such violence is the driving force behind her survival. In La Marquise de Sade, there is evident importance given to the animalistic influences in the young heroine's life. P. Bade explains that in paintings and descriptions of the femme fatale there is almost always a hint of bestiality. Clawing, as a means to dominate, is a recurring theme in the narrative and the primary method that Mary uses to draw blood in a sadistic attempt to acquire both physical and emotional domination.
