Gervaise Macquart's Vision: a Closer Look at Zola's Use of `point of view' in L'Assommoir

This study of Assommoir considers the close correlation between modification of the "point of view" and the decline of the protagonist. The term vision is considered in two ways: firstly, as the physical sense of sight; secondly as insight, discrimination. The changing status of the network of imagery connected with Gervaise Macquart's provincial past is singled out for detailed analysis. A consideration of the other main characters proves that only her vision is accorded a privileged position in the novel and reasons for this narrative strategy are suggested. (JN/BJ)