The Three Cities Trilogy: Rome, Volume 4

"The Three Cities Trilogy: Rome, Volume 4" by Émile Zola is a novel written during the late 19th century. This installment continues the story of Pierre Froment, a young priest navigating the complex and often treacherous ecclesiastical world of Rome as he defends his controversial book amidst political and religious intrigue within the Catholic Church. The opening of this volume introduces Pierre as he eagerly seeks to resolve the challenges posed by the Congregation of the Index, which has condemned his book. He grapples with the proper approach to influential cardinals, receiving advice from the timid Don Vigilio, who cautions him about the political dynamics at play. As Pierre visits various clergy members, he learns about the intricate web of ambition and rivalry within the Church, particularly the scheming presence of the Jesuits. He is increasingly aware of the stakes involved, not only for his work but for the future of the Church itself, leading him deeper into a conflict that challenges his beliefs and aspirations. The narrative paints a vivid picture of institutional power struggles, setting the stage for Pierre's moral and spiritual dilemma. (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.