Germinal

"Germinal" by Émile Zola is a story set amid the unforgiving coal mines of 19th-century France, zeroing in on Étienne Lantier, a man seeking work who soon finds himself wrapped up in the miners' hard lives. The story paints a picture of the miners' hopes and feelings as they grapple with the changes brought on by growing industries. Lantier's arrival at the Voreux coal pit introduces him to the exploitation faced by these workers, leading him to seek employment there. The story then shows the struggles of the Maheu family, who live in cramped quarters and constantly fight financial hardship. The tough conditions of the mine and hints of bigger social problems create a sense of coming conflict, framing their daily lives.