The novel revolves around the lives of several characters connected to the three cities of Lille, Beauvais, and Paris. It explores themes of love, family, politics, and social class during the late 19th century in France. The story follows Pierre Froment, a priest who becomes disillusioned with the Catholic Church, and his relationships with various women, including his cousin Marie and the courtesan Albine. Meanwhile, a subplot involves a group of revolutionaries seeking to overthrow the French government. Throughout the novel, Zola critiques the social and political institutions of his time, highlighting their corruption and hypocrisy.
By Émile Zola · First published 1894 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Realism, Historical Fiction · 5 chapters