Gustave Flaubert

Definition

Gustave Flaubert was a French novelist and a key figure in the development of literary realism in the 19th century, best known for his novel 'Madame Bovary.' He focused on capturing the nuances of everyday life and human experience, setting a standard for realistic fiction that influenced later writers like Balzac and Zola.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Flaubert's meticulous attention to detail and style in 'Madame Bovary' set new standards for narrative technique and character development in literature.
2. He famously stated that 'the art of writing is the art of discovering what you believe,' reflecting his dedication to truthfulness in representation.
3. Flaubert's use of irony and criticism of bourgeois society in 'Madame Bovary' helped lay the groundwork for future literary movements.
4. His approach to writing was marked by extensive research and a commitment to creating authentic characters and settings.
5. Despite initial controversy and legal challenges regarding 'Madame Bovary,' Flaubert's work eventually gained recognition as a masterpiece of literary realism.

Review Questions

• How did Gustave Flaubert's writing style contribute to the emergence of literary realism in the 19th century?
  • Flaubert's writing style emphasized meticulous detail and psychological depth, which were key components of literary realism. He focused on portraying everyday life without embellishment, using precise language and structure to reflect the complexities of human experience. His dedication to authenticity influenced not only his contemporaries but also future generations of writers who sought to explore the ordinary aspects of life.
• Analyze the significance of 'Madame Bovary' within Flaubert's body of work and its impact on the genre of realism.
  • 'Madame Bovary' stands as Flaubert's most significant work, encapsulating his themes of disillusionment and societal critique. The novel illustrates the struggles of Emma Bovary as she seeks escape from her mundane reality through romantic fantasies, ultimately leading to her downfall. This narrative not only critiques bourgeois values but also exemplifies Flaubert's innovative narrative techniques, establishing a benchmark for realistic fiction that profoundly impacted the genre.
• Evaluate how Flaubert's life experiences shaped his perspective on society and informed his critique of bourgeois culture in his works.
  • Flaubert's personal experiences, including his middle-class upbringing and exposure to various social circles, significantly shaped his critical perspective on society. His encounters with the limitations and moral constraints of bourgeois culture fueled his disdain for its superficiality, which he expressed through sharp irony in works like 'Madame Bovary.' This critique not only reflects his own disillusionment but also resonates with broader themes in realism, as he sought to unveil the stark realities behind societal facades.

Related terms

Realism: A literary movement that emerged in the 19th century, emphasizing the depiction of everyday life and society without idealization or romanticism.

'Madame Bovary': Flaubert's most famous work, published in 1857, which tells the story of a young woman whose pursuit of romantic dreams leads to tragedy.

Literary Naturalism: A literary movement closely related to realism that suggests human behavior is determined by heredity and environment, exemplified by authors like Émile Zola.