<p>Émile Zola's "The Dream" is a poignant exploration of idealism and disillusionment, set against the backdrop of 19th-century France. The narrative follows the life of a poor flower seller, Angélique, whose yearning for beauty and love contrasts sharply with her harsh reality. Zola's naturalistic style, characterized by vivid descriptions and deeply psychological character studies, elevates this tale beyond mere romantic fiction, revealing the ...