Germinal

Which characters show unexpected goodness, compassion, or bravery? Why is their behavior surprising, and what does it suggest about the message of the novel?

Germinal is a naturalist novel examining the effect of heredity and environment on people’s character and behavior. Does the novel suggest these forces, which determine people’s futures, are impossible to overcome? What might people do to make progress against these forces?

Examine the various perspectives on how the miners should revolt. Consider Bonnemort, Rasseneur, Maheu and La Maheude, Souvarine, and Étienne in your answer. What experiences or circumstances influence their opinions? Who, if anyone, is ultimately correct? 

Discuss the character of Deneulin. How does he differ from M. Hennebeau, and how does his position as an independent mine owner affect how he treats his workers? In what way is he a victim of the Company, and what does his fate say about capital? How does Deneulin contrast with M. Grégoire? Although M. Grégoire is more financially secure at the novel’s end, how does Deneulin transcend M. Grégoire? 

How is the coal mine an effective setting for a book about the exploitation of the worker? How does Zola use the setting to convey his messages? 

Germinal is in some ways a novel about power. Who is at the top of the hierarchy, who is in the middle, and who is at the bottom? How do those not at the top seek to raise themselves by exerting power over those beneath them?

In what ways is Germinal a novel about human flaws and failings? Is the novel forgiving of people’s flaws? Are some flaws forgivable while others are not?

Trace Catherine’s arc throughout the novel. In what ways does she change, and why? What does her changing say about the role of women and of the poor?