Naturalism and Determinism in 19th Century Literature

The Origins and Characteristics of Naturalism

Naturalism was a movement that flourished in late nineteenth-century literature and, to a lesser extent, the other arts. Its creator was Émile Zola in France, and it subsequently spread throughout the West. This movement seeks to capture reality with absolute objectivity, often being associated with the evolution of Realism. Furthermore, this movement is characterized by narrative coldness, as it rejects the tenets of Romanticism and includes environmental aspects that had not appeared previously, such as diseases, sexual themes, and social classes.

Zola posits that the individual is an integral part of society; if you change the individual, you can change society, and this shift can change your life.

Determinism and the Naturalistic Narrative

In the study of madness, the characters typically belong to the proletariat. Their actions are marked by determinism within the framework of genetic inheritance and environmental education. The author attempts to demonstrate the temperament of society. The narrator is omniscient, which is a vital feature in naturalistic novels; it also requires the presence of an absolutely neutral external narrator (an observer). The novel aims to acquire both moral and scientific value, which requires the language to be adjusted to the specific time period.

Focus: The Pathology of Daniel Serrallonga

The central idea of this work is the disease suffered by Daniel Serrallonga: his madness. He suffers from this disease due to a genetic inheritance from his late father, Ignacio Serrallonga. Throughout the story, this disease develops and progresses through different phases. First, Oller shows Daniel as nervous and excited; then, he develops a strong admiration for General Prim. Following Prim's death, Daniel begins to experience attacks of schizophrenia, becomes obsessed with various things, and abuses his wife.

Perspectives on Mental Illness

The characters represent different points of view regarding this disease: Armengol provides a humorous touch, Boston offers a scientific perspective, and the Narrator provides a more human and sympathetic view.

Additional Themes and Social Context

• Politics of the 19th Century in Spain: Includes the Carlist movement, scandals, arrests, and the abuse of power.
• Parent-Son Relationships: Represented by the two doctors, though each maintains a different viewpoint.
• Hatred: Specifically, the attacks of jealousy Daniel directs toward his wife.
• Marginalization: Explains how the "misfits" of the time were marginalized simply for being "different."