Gustave Flaubert

Definition

Gustave Flaubert was a French novelist best known for his groundbreaking work 'Madame Bovary', which is considered a cornerstone of literary realism. His meticulous attention to detail and emphasis on character development and psychological depth paved the way for modern narrative techniques, influencing many authors and movements that followed.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Flaubert's writing process was famously laborious; he spent years revising his works to achieve the perfect expression of his ideas.
2. His exploration of the inner lives of characters set a precedent for psychological depth in literature, influencing future authors like Marcel Proust and James Joyce.
3. Flaubert was known for his use of 'le mot juste', meaning 'the right word', emphasizing precision in language and style.
4. His trial for obscenity over 'Madame Bovary' highlighted the tension between artistic expression and societal norms in the 19th century.
5. Flaubert's other notable works include 'Salammbo' and 'Sentimental Education', which further showcase his literary innovations and themes of desire and disappointment.

Review Questions

• How did Gustave Flaubert's approach to character development influence the realist movement in literature?
  • Flaubert's approach to character development significantly influenced the realist movement by emphasizing psychological depth and complexity. In 'Madame Bovary', he delves into Emma Bovary's thoughts, feelings, and motivations, allowing readers to understand her struggles and desires on a deeper level. This focus on realistic characters who grapple with everyday problems set a standard for realism, encouraging later authors to adopt similar techniques in their own works.
• Discuss the impact of Flaubert's writing style on modern narrative techniques.
  • Flaubert's meticulous writing style, characterized by careful word choice and structure, has had a lasting impact on modern narrative techniques. His concept of 'le mot juste' led writers to pay closer attention to language, enhancing the emotional resonance of their stories. Additionally, his use of free indirect discourse allowed for more fluid shifts between character perspectives, enriching the narrative experience. These innovations opened up new possibilities for storytelling that continue to resonate in contemporary literature.
• Evaluate the significance of Flaubert's trial for obscenity in relation to the broader cultural context of 19th-century France.
  • The significance of Flaubert's trial for obscenity over 'Madame Bovary' can be understood as a reflection of the broader cultural tensions in 19th-century France regarding art, morality, and societal norms. The trial not only spotlighted Flaubert's innovative narrative techniques but also highlighted the clash between traditional values and emerging modernist perspectives. This event illustrated how literature was increasingly being scrutinized in light of changing social mores, paving the way for greater artistic freedom while also challenging writers to navigate the complex relationship between creativity and censorship.

Related terms

Realism: A literary movement that aims to represent everyday life and society as it is, often focusing on middle-class characters and their struggles.

Madame Bovary: Flaubert's most famous novel, which tells the story of a woman's disillusionment with marriage and her quest for passion and fulfillment, ultimately leading to her downfall.

Narrative Style: The manner in which a story is told, including the choice of perspective, tone, and structure, which in Flaubert's case often involves a detached and analytical approach.