Thérèse Raquin

by Émile Zola

"Thérèse Raquin" by Émile Zola is a novel published in 1867. Trapped in a loveless marriage to her sickly cousin Camille, Thérèse begins a passionate affair with Laurent, her husband's friend. Convinced they can only find happiness together, the lovers commit murder. But their crime becomes their torment—haunted by guilt and disturbing visions, their passion transforms into mutual hatred. This detached, psychological exploration of temperament and consequence is considered a seminal work of literary naturalism.