This thesis studies the emergence of the department store in 19th century Paris, as described by Zola's novel "Au Bonheur des Dames". This development appears to be a result of Paris'...Show moreThis thesis studies the emergence of the department store in 19th century Paris, as described by Zola's novel "Au Bonheur des Dames". This development appears to be a result of Paris' transformation implicated by Haussmann on the one hand, and the growing capitalism and consumerism on the other. Zola treats all this in his naturalist fashion, based on thorough research on the subject. Furthermore, dualisms, metaphors and imagery make up a large part of his novel.Show less
