The novel revolves around the lives of several characters connected to the Catholic Church during the pontificate of Pope Pius IX. The story explores themes of faith, morality, and power struggles within the Church. It delves into the inner workings of the Vatican and the role of the clergy in shaping the Church's policies.
By Émile Zola · First published 1902 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Historical Fiction, Philosophical Fiction · 3 chapters