The Downfall Part First

In The Downfall Part I, Émile Zola portrays the disintegration of the French army during the early stages of the Franco-Prussian War. The story follows Jean Macquart, a corporal in the French army, whose corps is ordered to march through the Rhine valley but is soon forced to retreat toward Belfort. As the army faces crushing defeats and a relentless Prussian advance, the soldiers are subjected to pointless maneuvers. The growing fatigue, demoralization, and disorganization within the ranks are powerfully conveyed as supplies and food fail to reach those in need.

The narrative shifts as Jean’s corps is redirected to Reims, with orders to march toward the besieged city of Metz. However, in response to the Prussian forces, the army's path deviates toward Sedan, near the Belgian border. Amidst the chaos, Jean forms a bond with Maurice, a fellow soldier, whose sister lives in Sedan, deepening the personal stakes of the war.