The Three Cities, Rome Volume IV
The novel revolves around the lives of several characters connected to the Catholic Church in France during the late 19th century. The story explores themes of faith, morality, and social class through the experiences of its protagonists.
By Émile Zola · First published 1902 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Historical Fiction, Social Critique · 4 chapters · 74,048 words
First lines
IN his anxiety to bring things to a finish, Pierre wished to begin his campaign on the very next day. But on whom should he first call if he were to steer clear of blunders in that intricate and conceited ecclesiastical world? The question greatly perplexed him; however, on opening his door that morning he luckily perceived Don Vigilio in the passage, and with a sudden inspiration asked him to step inside. He realised that this thin little man with the saffron face, who always trembled with fever and displayed such exaggerated, timorous discretion, was in reality well informed, mixed up in everything. At one period it had seemed to Pierre that the secretary purposely avoided him, doubtless for fear of compromising himself; but recently Don Vigilio had proved less unsociable, as though he were not far from sharing the impatience which must be consuming the young Frenchman amidst his long enforced inactivity.
What this Textopian page supports
The Three Cities, Rome Volume IV is listed on Textopian as a novel by Émile Zola, dated 1902 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novel
- Author: Émile Zola
- Date: 1902 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Literary Fiction, Historical Fiction, Social Critique, Philosophical Fiction, Drama
- Length: 74,048 words
- Structure: 4 chapters, 761 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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- Work identity for The Three Cities, Rome Volume IV by Émile Zola
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Three Cities, Rome Volume IV?
- How does this novel by Émile Zola fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Literary Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Three Cities Rome Volume V by Emile Zola
- The Three Cities Rome Volume Ii by Emile Zola
- The Three Cities Rome Volume Iii by Emile Zola
- The Three Cities Rome Volume I by Emile Zola
- The Three Cities Paris Volume I by Emile Zola
- The Three Cities Paris Volume V by Emile Zola
Genres
- Literary Fiction — The book explores complex themes of faith, ambition, and the intricacies of ecclesiastical politics, characteristic of literary fiction.
- Historical Fiction — Set in Rome, it reflects historical contexts and the dynamics of the Catholic Church, blending factual history with fictional narrative.
- Social Critique — The narrative critiques the structures of power within the Church and society, highlighting moral and ethical dilemmas.
- Philosophical Fiction — The book delves into philosophical questions about faith, authority, and the nature of truth, prompting deep reflection.
Tags
Historical Fiction · French Literature · 19th Century · Catholic Church · Religion · Philosophy · Politics · Social Commentary · Realism · Naturalism · Romanticism · Tragedy