- 1
Why do the women mangle Maigrat's body as thoroughly as they do?
Maigrat's mutilation and pillaging by the women is a visceral reaction to the sexual harassment he repeatedly subjected them to. What the women do shocks everyone, including Etienne and even the most fervent and violent of the male protestors. The incident reveals the hidden pains and frustrations that the women have had to hold in. Zola's vivid description gives the reader some interpretive freedom to assess the significance of the women's actions beyond simple retribution. They attempt to eradicate the difference in the way they are treated by reacting in an overzealous way.
Though Maigrat is already...
Join Now to View Premium Content
GradeSaver provides access to 2370 study guide PDFs and quizzes, 11018 literature essays, 2792 sample college application essays, 926 lesson plans, and ad-free surfing in this premium content, “Members Only” section of the site! Membership includes a 10% discount on all editing orders.
