French Tales of Cataclysms

Exploring the concept of "cataclysm," this book delves into the history of the French roman scientifique, a genre that merges scientific inquiry with speculative fiction. It traces the evolution of this literary form from the 18th century to the present, highlighting how large-scale natural disasters and social upheavals have shaped narratives and themes within the genre. Through this lens, the book examines the interplay between scientific ideas and societal changes, offering insights into the cultural significance of cataclysmic events in literature.