Which Zola novel is considered the best in terms of literary value?

Personally, 'Thérèse Raquin' stands out in terms of literary value. The psychological exploration of the characters is deep. Thérèse's internal turmoil and her relationship with Laurent are portrayed in a very intense way. Zola's writing style in this novel, with its detailed descriptions and exploration of human nature, makes it a great work of literature.

I would say 'La Débâcle' has great literary value. It's set during the Franco - Prussian War and shows the chaos and destruction of war. Zola's ability to capture the emotions of the soldiers, the horror of the battlefield, and the political and social implications of the war is quite remarkable. It's a complex and well - written novel.

Well, 'Germinal' is often highly regarded for its literary value. Zola's use of naturalism in this novel is masterful. He presents a detailed and unflinching look at the lives of the miners, from their dangerous work in the mines to their meager living conditions. The way he develops the characters and the story's overall arc make it a significant piece of literature.