A French Naturalist novel
The novel 'Germinie Lacerteux' by the Goncourt brothers, inspired by their servant's secret life, offers a 'social investigation' and 'psychological research' into 19th-century Parisian lower classes. It introduces Germinie Lacerteux, a maid to Mademoiselle de Varandeuil, whose traumatic childhood, sexual assault, and poverty lead to misdirected religious devotion. Germinie's life is defined by intense, self-sacrificing, unrequited love for Jupillon, for whom she makes significant financial sacrifices, endures pregnancy, and a harrowing childbirth. Following her daughter's death, she descends into grief, alcoholism, and petty theft, driven by Jupillon's betrayal and mounting debts. Despite a secret life of degradation and despair, she maintains an outward facade of virtue and deep devotion to her mistress, constantly fearing exposure. Her internal conflicts and resignation to 'Fatality' lead to severe psychological torment and physical deterioration. Her death in Lariboisière hospital ultimately reveals her profound hidden suffering and financial burdens. Mademoiselle de Varandeuil, initially enraged by the discovery of Germinie's secret life, gradually shifts to pity and understanding. Her search for Germinie's grave exposes the indignity of her burial in a common ditch, serving as a stark social commentary on the plight of the poor in 19th-century Paris.
