Nana by Emile Zola (Vintage 1966 Edition)

“Nana” is a novel written by the French author Émile Zola, and it is part of his series of novels known as the “Rougon-Macquart” series. Published in 1880, “Nana” is one of the most famous and controversial works in Zola’s series, as it explores themes of sex, power, and society in Second Empire France.

Key aspects of the novel “Nana” include:

1. The Protagonist: The titular character, Nana, is a beautiful and charismatic courtesan who rises from a modest background to become a sought-after and wealthy mistress in Parisian high society. Her allure and destructive impact on those around her are central to the story.
2. Second Empire Paris: The novel is set against the backdrop of the opulent and decadent Second Empire period in France under Emperor Napoleon III. Zola vividly portrays the excesses and moral decay of this era.
3. Social Commentary: Zola uses Nana’s story to comment on the social and moral decay of the times, critiquing the corrupting influence of wealth, fame, and power on both individuals and society.
4. Character Studies: The novel offers detailed character studies of Nana and various other characters, including her lovers, friends, and rivals. These characters represent different aspects of society and human nature.
5. Tragedy and Irony: “Nana” is a tragic story, and Zola employs irony throughout the narrative to highlight the self-destructive tendencies of the characters and the society in which they live.
6. Sensationalism: The novel was considered highly scandalous and controversial when it was first published due to its explicit depictions of sex, decadence, and immorality. It remains a classic example of naturalism, a literary movement that sought to depict life and society as they truly were.

Émile Zola’s “Nana” is a powerful work of literature that continues to be studied and appreciated for its unflinching portrayal of the dark underbelly of society and the human condition. It offers a critical lens through which to view the excesses and moral ambiguities of the Second Empire in France.