Emile Zola: Time, History, and Myth Reviewed

Since the resuscitation of Zola studies in the early 1950's, several interpretations of Zola's conception of time, myth, and history have been put forth. These variations result from the ambiguities in Zola's writings as much as from the many points of view of literary critics. Inasmuch as these themes rest at the foundation of Zola's vision and prophetic sight, it seems appropriate to bring together in one place the essential ideas of the various and often contradictory analyses of the subject. (LK)