The Miller's Daughter by Émile Zola - Full Audiobook
Channel: book nook
Date: 2023-04-25

"The Miller's Daughter" is a novel written by Émile Zola, a French author and prominent figure in the literary movement known as Naturalism. The novel was first published in 1881 and is part of Zola's monumental twenty-novel series called "Les Rougon-Macquart," which provides a sweeping panorama of French society during the Second Empire.

The story centers around the character of Ursule Mouret, the daughter of a provincial miller in rural France. Ursule grows up in a strict Catholic environment, but her desires and passions are awakened when she meets and falls in love with a Parisian artist named Serge Mouret. Despite the social and moral obstacles that stand in their way, Ursule and Serge embark on a forbidden love affair that sets off a chain of events with devastating consequences.

"The Miller's Daughter" explores themes such as love, desire, morality, religion, and social norms. Zola's naturalistic approach portrays the characters and their actions as products of their environment, and he vividly describes the struggles and conflicts they face in a changing society. The novel also delves into the complexities of human nature and the consequences of unchecked passion.

Zola's writing style is known for its detailed descriptions, psychological insights, and social commentary. He portrays the harsh realities of life, depicting the challenges faced by individuals caught in the web of social, moral, and emotional constraints. "The Miller's Daughter" is a thought-provoking novel that provides a poignant portrayal of human nature and society, and it remains a significant work in the canon of French literature.