Therese Raquin is reserved and withdrawn Parisian woman forced to marry the sickly Camille. A meeting with Laurent, her husband's childhood friend, draws her out of her shell, and the pair soon embarks on a passionate and all-consuming affair.

Following their unthinkable deed, propriety dictates that the lovers remain separated for a time. Therese and Laurent hatch a plan to legitimize their union, but both are tormented by nightmares and visions of the murdered Camille.

Burdened by their guilt, Therese and Laurent find no joy in their marriage. During one of their quarrels, Madame Raquin-Camille's mother- overhears the truth about what happened to her son.