Emile Zola's novel 'Nana' is a vivid depiction of Parisian society in the 19th century, focusing on the rise and fall of a young actress named Nana. Zola's realist style brings to life the decadent atmosphere of the French capital, exploring themes of ambition, desire, and societal expectations. The novel is part of Zola's larger Rougon-Macquart series, which aims to provide a comprehensive portrait of French society through multiple interconnected novels. 'Nana' stands out for its detailed character development and social commentary, making it a classic of French literature.