The Downfall (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9781417902538)

The Downfall is a novel by French author Emile Zola, first published in 1892. It is the thirteenth novel in Zola's twenty-volume Rougon-Macquart series, which explores the social and political landscape of France during the Second Empire. The Downfall follows the story of Aristide Rougon, a powerful and ambitious politician who rises to prominence in the government of Napoleon III. Rougon is a skilled manipulator and strategist, using his connections and influence to secure his position and advance his career. However, his ruthless pursuit of power ultimately leads to his downfall, as he becomes embroiled in a scandal that threatens to destroy his reputation and his political career.The novel explores themes of corruption, ambition, and the corrupting influence of power, as well as the complex social and political dynamics of nineteenth-century France. Zola's vivid and detailed portrayal of the political world of the Second Empire is both insightful and compelling, offering a fascinating glimpse into a pivotal moment in French history.Overall, The Downfall is a masterful work of historical fiction, offering a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of the human cost of political ambition and the corrupting influence of power. It is a must-read for fans of Zola's work, as well as anyone interested in the history and politics of nineteenth-century France.1902. French writer and critic, leader of the naturalist school. From the Introduction: The Downfall is the proem of the grand climax or interpretation found in Doctor Pascal, which gives the sum of the whole matter by exhibiting the order and meaning of the series. And what is the sum of the whole matter? The redemption of the human soul by love; for a more wonderful love story remains to be written! Can this be our experimentalist? Let the reader convince himself. See other titles by this author available from Kessinger Publishing.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.

Author: Emile Zola
ISBN-10: 1417902531
ISBN-13: 9781417902538
Publisher: Kessinger Publishing
Language: English
Published: 04/01/2005
Pages: 664
Format: Paperback
Weight: 2.11lbs
Size: 9.00h x 6.00w x 1.46d