Émile Zola (notable author)

Émile Zola (1840-1902) was a French novelist and playwright, best known for his role in the naturalism literary movement, which emphasized a realistic portrayal of life, focusing on the impact of environment and heredity on human behavior. His notable works include the "Rougon-Macquart" series, which explores various aspects of French society during the Second Empire. Zola's keen observations of social issues, such as poverty and injustice, influenced both literature and politics. He was also involved in the Dreyfus Affair, advocating for justice and exposing anti-Semitism, which underscored his commitment to social reform and human rights.