The novel is structured as a series of tales told by four different storytellers, each of whom recounts their own experiences with libertinism and cruelty. The stories are presented as a form of entertainment for the Society of Libertines, who use them as inspiration for their own depraved activities.

"120 Days of Sodom" has been the subject of controversy and censorship since its publication. The book was first published in 1904, more than a century after it was written, and has since been translated into many languages. However, its explicit content and themes have led to numerous bans and challenges.

"120 Days of Sodom" (French title: "Les 120 Journées de Sodome") is a notorious novel written by the Marquis de Sade, a French aristocrat and writer, in 1785. The book is considered one of Sade's most extreme and infamous works, exploring themes of libertinism, hedonism, and the darker aspects of human nature.