Gustave Flaubert - 'Madame Bovary'

Definition

Gustave Flaubert's 'Madame Bovary' is a landmark novel in the realist literature movement, published in 1856. The story follows Emma Bovary, a woman trapped in a dull provincial life, who seeks escape through romantic fantasies and material indulgence. Flaubert's precise style and focus on character psychology exemplify the shift towards realism, highlighting the struggles of individuals against societal constraints and the harsh realities of life.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Madame Bovary' faced legal challenges upon publication due to its portrayal of infidelity and moral issues, leading to a trial that ultimately affirmed its literary value.
2. Flaubert's meticulous attention to detail in writing created a sense of authenticity, using rich descriptions to bring the characters' inner lives to the forefront.
3. The novel's themes include the limitations imposed by society, the consequences of unrealistic aspirations, and the search for meaning in a mundane existence.
4. Emma Bovary is often viewed as a tragic figure whose pursuit of passion leads to her downfall, illustrating the dangers of romantic idealism in a practical world.
5. Flaubert's use of free indirect discourse allows readers to experience Emma's thoughts directly, merging her perspective with an objective narrative voice.

Review Questions

• How does Flaubert's portrayal of Emma Bovary reflect the principles of realism?
  • Flaubert's portrayal of Emma Bovary embodies realism through his detailed depiction of her internal struggles and societal limitations. Rather than idealizing her character, he presents her as a flawed individual whose aspirations clash with reality. This realistic representation invites readers to empathize with Emma's plight while also critiquing the societal norms that contribute to her dissatisfaction.
• In what ways does 'Madame Bovary' critique romantic ideals, and how does this connect to Flaubert's broader commentary on society?
  • 'Madame Bovary' critiques romantic ideals by showing how Emma's fantasies lead to destructive consequences. Her yearning for passion and excitement starkly contrasts with her mundane life, illustrating how such dreams can result in disillusionment. Flaubert uses Emma's downfall as a commentary on society's pressures and the dangers of unrealistic aspirations, highlighting the tension between individual desires and social expectations.
• Evaluate how Flaubert's narrative techniques in 'Madame Bovary' enhance the reader's understanding of character psychology and realism.
  • Flaubert employs innovative narrative techniques such as free indirect discourse and meticulous detail to deepen readers' understanding of character psychology. By blending Emma's thoughts with an omniscient narrative voice, he creates an intimate portrait of her struggles while maintaining an objective perspective. This approach not only reinforces the realism of the text but also allows readers to engage with Emma's inner turmoil, making her experiences resonate on a personal level.

Related terms

Realism:

A literary movement that emerged in the 19th century, emphasizing a faithful representation of everyday life and ordinary characters.

Romanticism:

An artistic and literary movement that prioritized emotion and individualism, often contrasting with the realism that followed.

Stream of Consciousness: A narrative technique that attempts to capture the flow of thoughts and feelings in a character's mind, often used to deepen psychological insight.