Au Bonheur des Dames – L’histoire de l’ascension d’une femme
Ladies’ Paradise – The Story of a Woman’s Ascent

Summary/Abstract: This article presents in a descriptive and narrative way the fate of Denise Baudu, the heroine of the novel ”Au Bonheur des Dames” by Émile Zola. This story breathes new life into literature where women, even if they occupy the central place, are still confined to known classic roles. With Denise, the author creates the prototype of the modern, independent, strong, creative woman who is able to build a successful career and rise above her class in a society dominated by men, thanks to her merits. We first present the era - the birth and development of high commerce, - then the micro-society in which the character evolves, the ”Bonheur des Dames” novelty store and the shops in the neighborhood and finally, the rise of Denise, her career by stages, all this accompanied by a few considerations concerning the art of the naturalist writer.

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