In the small town of Varmland, Sweden, Gosta Berling, a former priest, is living a reckless and self-destructive life as an alcoholic. He finds himself caught up in a dangerous affair with a countess, leading to a series of events filled with melodrama, deception, and tragedy. As Gosta struggles to find redemption and escape the consequences of his actions, he must confront his inner demons and make a choice between salvation and damnation.