Gustav von Aschenbach is the protagonist of Thomas Mann's novella, "Death in Venice." He is a successful, middle-aged composer who struggles with his artistic identity and personal desires. Aschenbach is depicted as disciplined and reserved, yet he becomes increasingly captivated by beauty and youth during his journey to Venice. During his stay in Venice, Aschenbach encounters a young boy named Tadzio, who symbolizes ideal beauty and innocence. This infatuation leads Aschenbach to confront his own mortality and the conflict between desire and artistic integrity. His obsession ultimately drives the narrative toward themes of love, decay, and the pursuit of beauty.