Emile Zola

Name: Emile Zola
Author: William Dean Howells

By William Dean Howells

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About This Book

A critical portrait assesses a major naturalist novelist, arguing that his passionate advocacy of realism was tempered by romantic inheritance and an instinct for epic, thesis-driven designs that constrain depiction of life. The essay contrasts his symmetrical, temple-like structures with the freer, unsystematic forms of northern writers, traces an underlying moral absolutism attributed to his Italian origin, and contends that his often shocking scenes serve moral demonstration rather than mere sensationalism. Blending biographical detail and literary analysis, it presents the author's work as perpetually debated rather than conclusively judged.

About the Author

William Dean Howells

William Dean Howells (1837-1920) was an influential American author and literary critic, often regarded as the "Dean of American Letters." He is best known for his realistic portrayals of American life and society, particularly in the late 19th century. Howells's works often explore themes of social class and morality, reflecting the complexities of contemporary life. His notable novel, "A Hazard of New Fortunes," delves into the challenges faced by individuals in a rapidly changing society. Throughout his career, Howells contributed significantly to the development of realism in American literature, advocating for a more truthful representation of everyday experiences.