In 1794, while French aristocrats are beheaded daily as part of Robespierre's 'Reign of Terror,' the Marquis de Sade is being held at Saint Lazare prison. Cheerful despite the circumstances, Sade's lover Marie-Constance Quesnet, whom he calls 'Sensible,' manages to get him transferred to Picpus, a former convent. While at Picpus, Sade occupies himself with the sexual awakening of 16-year-old Emilie, whom he grooms as a young protege. Despite his confinement, Sade manages to meet other aristocratic inmates, write and put on a play, practicing his own brand of freedom.