In this thesis, one of Thomas Mann's most significant works, "Death in Venice," is interpreted. The content of this novella is multifaceted, allowing for various interpretations. The aim of this thesis is to direct attention to the contrast between two Greek gods, Apollo and Dionysus. According to Nietzsche, these two gods complement each other and often act together. Aschenbach's moral and psychological decline is conditioned by many motifs associated with the god Dionysus. At first glance, it is difficult to notice the deeper meaning of the novella's content. This thesis presents information about Thomas Mann and his work. It then outlines the plot and offers characterization of the main characters, Gustav Aschenbach and the boy Tadzio. It also presents the aporias that can be observed in the work, supported by quotations. The tragic fate of the main character is heralded by numerous messengers of death who appear in the name of the god Dionysus. The fact that Thomas Mann is one of the most significant authors of his time, whose works are still valued today, is best evidenced by the eponymous film by the Italian director Luchino Visconti. The comparison between the novella and the film are also discussed in this thesis. The goal of this paper is to draw attention to the contradictions observable in the novella, as well as to compare the content of the novella and the eponymous film, which point to one of the main contradictions leading to the death of the protagonist.