Based on historical fact of the Napoleonic Era, the notorious Marquis de Sade continues to write about the pain of love and the love of pain while banished to a secluded Paris asylum. A young, idealistic priest endeavors to save his soul but instead is distracted by de Sade's luscious maid. The asylum director Dr. Royce-Collard vows to cure de Sade, by any means possible.