His Excellency [Son Exc. Eugène Rougon]

"His Excellency [Son Exc. Eugène Rougon]" by Émile Zola is a political novel written in the late 19th century. The book examines the intricacies of the Second French Empire, focusing on Eugène Rougon, a powerful political figure intricately involved with the Emperor Napoleon III and the tumultuous political climate of the time. Through Rougon's story, Zola explores themes of power, ambition, and the moral compromises that accompany political life. The opening of the narrative introduces readers to a legislative session in the French Chamber of Deputies, where a mixture of indifference and camaraderie characterizes the atmosphere. Various deputies discuss the influential Rougon, reflecting on his possible resignation and the intricate political maneuverings occurring behind the scenes. Central players include M. Kahn, who inquires about Rougon's whereabouts and expresses concern over his fate, and Clorinde Balbi, whose enchanting presence captures attention. Zola's attention to detail immerses readers in a vivid portrayal of political life, highlighting Rougon's pivotal role as both a symbol of authority and an embodiment of the complexities and intrigues inherent in the governance of the era. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Émile Édouard Charles Antoine Zola was a French novelist, journalist, playwright, the best-known practitioner of the literary school of naturalism, and an important contributor to the development of theatrical naturalism. He was a major figure in the political liberalization of France and in the exoneration of the falsely accused and convicted army officer Alfred Dreyfus, which is encapsulated in his renowned newspaper opinion headlined J'Accuse…!  Zola was nominated for the first and second Nobel prizes in literature in 1901 and 1902.