What inspired Émile Zola to focus on the struggles of an artist in this way?
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The Masterpiece

The Masterpiece
La discussion entre lecteurs est ouverte maintenant. Il s’agit d’une discussion communautaire.
What inspired Émile Zola to focus on the struggles of an artist in this way?
Did anyone else feel torn between sympathizing with the artist and feeling frustrated by his choices?
How do you think the setting of 19th-century France influences the story’s themes?