Naturalism and criticism: An illustration of the various methods of studying Zola, Gissing, Norris and Hauptmann, a translation with introduction of 'Naturalism' by Yves Chevrel

This dissertation is a study of the naturalist movement in literature and its criticism with a translation of a theoretical work by Professor Yves Chevrel of the University of La Sorbonne, entitled Le Naturalisme, Etude d'un Mouvement Litteraire International. There are two parts to this project. The first is an introduction to the naturalist movement itself, concentrating on the international aspect of the movement and its influence on literature throughout the western world from the origins to now. This general introduction on naturalism and its importance in literature is followed by a study of what types of criticisms have been applied to the movement. Articles on Zola, Gissing, Norris, and Hauptmann are explored in order to illustrate the critical reception of naturalism. The outline found in Contexts for Criticism by Donald Keesey is used as a guide to select the approaches of the various critics. This outline also forms the basis for a review of Professor Chevrel's book, which introduces the translation itself.;This work was chosen because of the wealth of information it brings in a clear and synthetic way to the whole naturalist movement in Europe and in America. Professor Chevrel's book provides an invaluable tool for a better understanding of a literary movement, but also of an important period in history. Le Naturalisme was very well received by critics when it was first published and was praised for its clarity and completeness. An English translation of this work gives it the diffusion it deserves and permits the communication of important ideas no longer confined to one language.