The Complete Rougon-Macquart Series (All 20 Books in One Edition) (ePub)

Émile Zola, born on April 2, 1840, in Paris, France, is recognized as one of the most prominent novelists of the 19th century. Zola is best known for his monumental 20-novel cycle, 'The Complete Rougon-Macquart Series,' which provides a panoramic view of the Second French Empire (1852-1870). Committed to the doctrine of naturalism, Zola's literary style is characterized by its candid realism and deterministic view of character, where individuals are often shaped by their environments and heredity. His works examine the impact of social conditions on humanity, weaving complex narratives that explore themes of sexuality, class struggle, and moral decay. Throughout his career, Zola was not merely a storyteller but also a social commentator, using his pen to write about and criticize the societal ills of his time. He was instrumental in the exoneration of Alfred Dreyfus during the Dreyfus Affair, a political scandal that deeply divided France. Apart from 'The Rougon-Macquart Series,' Zola's notable works include 'Thérèse Raquin,' 'Germinal,' and 'J'accuse...!' which remains a significant open letter in political literature. The magnitude and depth of his literary contributions have made Zola a cornerstone of French literature and a pivotal figure in the development of the modern novel. Zola's death on September 29, 1902, was marked by controversy, yet his literary legacy continues to influence writers and thinkers worldwide.