author zola crossword puzzle clue – All Crossword Answers
Stuck on "author zola crossword puzzle clue"? You've come to the right place! We've compiled the most common answers and explanations to help you complete your puzzle. Read on to find the solution and expand your crossword knowledge.
Solutions for "author zola crossword puzzle clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
EMILE: Refers to Émile Zola (1840-1902), the renowned French novelist, a leading figure in the literary naturalism movement and a significant contributor to the Dreyfus affair.
More About "author zola crossword puzzle clue"
Émile Zola is an immensely important figure in French and world literature, most famous for his monumental 20-volume series, "Les Rougon-Macquart," which chronicles the lives of a family during the Second French Empire. Through these novels, he explored various facets of 19th-century French society, from the working class to the bourgeoisie, examining themes of heredity, environment, and social determinism with a stark, realistic lens that defined the Naturalism movement.
Beyond his literary achievements, Zola was a passionate advocate for justice and truth. His courageous intervention in the Dreyfus Affair, a political scandal that divided France, cemented his legacy. His open letter, "J'Accuse!," published in 1898, accused the highest levels of the French military of obstruction of justice and anti-Semitism, leading to his conviction for libel but ultimately contributing to Dreyfus's exoneration. This act of moral courage showcased Zola's commitment to social commentary and human rights, making him a truly iconic figure whose influence extends far beyond the realm of literature.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Think First Names: For clues referencing famous authors, artists, or historical figures by their last name, consider their lesser-known first name as a possible answer, especially if the letter count fits. Émile Zola is a classic example.
- Cross-Reference Clues: If you're stuck on an author's name, look for intersecting clues. Sometimes a crossing word might provide a crucial letter or hint that unlocks the author's identity.
- Consider Nationality: For foreign authors, understanding their nationality can sometimes help narrow down the name, or at least prepare you for a non-English spelling. While "Zola" is fairly universal, knowing he was French can help contextualize "Émile."
- Literary Movements: If a clue hints at a literary movement (like "Naturalism" for Zola), recalling key figures associated with that movement can often lead you to the answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Émile Zola?
Émile Zola (1840-1902) was a prominent French novelist, playwright, and journalist. He was a leading figure in the French Naturalism literary movement and an important contributor to the political liberalization of France and the exoneration of Alfred Dreyfus, which he championed through his famous open letter 'J'Accuse!'.
Why is 'EMILE' a common crossword answer for 'author Zola'?
Crossword puzzles often use the first name of well-known figures, especially authors, when their last name is presented in the clue. Since Émile Zola is widely recognized by both his first and last name, 'EMILE' serves as a concise and common answer for clues referencing 'author Zola'.
What is Naturalism in literature, associated with Zola?
Naturalism is a literary movement that emerged in the late 19th century, largely influenced by the theory of evolution and determinism. It sought to apply scientific objectivity to the study of human behavior, portraying life as it is, often focusing on the grim realities, social conditions, and the powerful influence of heredity and environment on characters. Zola's 'Rougon-Macquart' series is a prime example of Naturalism.