The Experimental Novel

For most of his adult life, Zola showed an interest in science, and he was well-versed in the natural selection theories of Charles Darwin (1809-1882), the theories on heredity of Prosper Lucas (1805-1885), and almost as importantly, the experimental method of Claude Bernard.

Therefore, he felt qualified to apply his own ‘experimental method’ to literature. In fact, Zola’s ambitious goal was for literature to become a scientific occupation.

In writing his essay The Experimental Novel, Zola wanted to prove three main points: First, that Claude Bernard’s experimental method could be directly applied to literature. Second: to distinguish naturalism from realism and romanticism by use of the experimental method. Third: to counteract criticism from those who called his work immoral.

Today, the essay itself remains as a sober experiment in scientific writing. It proposes hypotheses or premises, attempts to prove them by authority, deriving â€"what seemed to himâ€" scientific conclusions.

Whether one agrees or not with his ideas, the fact remains that many of his points â€"though bizarre at the timeâ€" wee ironically prophetic.