Gustave Flaubert

Definition

Gustave Flaubert was a French novelist and an influential figure in the literary movement known as Realism, best known for his novel 'Madame Bovary'. His meticulous approach to writing and emphasis on detail exemplified the principles of Realism, portraying everyday life and the complexities of human experience without romantic embellishment.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Flaubert is often regarded as the father of Realism in literature, influencing countless writers with his approach to character development and plot construction.
2. He spent five years writing 'Madame Bovary', showcasing his commitment to perfection and attention to detail, which became a hallmark of his work.
3. Flaubert was known for his use of free indirect discourse, allowing readers to experience characters' thoughts and emotions while maintaining narrative distance.
4. His works often critiqued the bourgeois society of 19th century France, exposing its moral limitations and the emptiness of material pursuits.
5. Flaubert's dedication to form led him to famously declare, 'Be regular and orderly in your life, so that you may be violent and original in your work.'

Review Questions

• How did Flaubert's writing style reflect the principles of Realism?
  • Flaubert's writing style was marked by meticulous attention to detail, which aligned closely with Realism's goal of depicting everyday life accurately. He avoided romanticizing his characters or their circumstances, instead portraying their struggles and desires in a straightforward manner. His use of precise language and free indirect discourse allowed readers to engage deeply with characters' internal conflicts while maintaining a critical distance from them.
• In what ways does 'Madame Bovary' serve as a critique of 19th-century French society?
  • In 'Madame Bovary', Flaubert critiques 19th-century French society by showcasing the emptiness and disillusionment faced by individuals trapped in bourgeois conventions. Through Emma Bovary's pursuit of romantic ideals and material luxuries, the novel highlights the limitations imposed by societal expectations and the futility of seeking fulfillment through superficial means. This critique extends beyond Emma's personal tragedy to reflect broader themes of dissatisfaction prevalent in a rapidly changing society.
• Evaluate how Flaubert’s influence on Realism has shaped modern literature, particularly in terms of character development and narrative techniques.
  • Flaubert’s influence on Realism has significantly shaped modern literature by setting standards for character development and narrative techniques that prioritize psychological depth and authenticity. His focus on inner thoughts and motivations through free indirect discourse paved the way for later authors to explore complex characters more intimately. This shift towards realism in storytelling encourages writers to depict life's intricacies more truthfully, impacting various genres from literary fiction to contemporary narratives that examine human experiences in relatable ways.

Related terms

Realism:

A literary movement that aims to represent everyday life and society as it is, focusing on the mundane and ordinary rather than idealized or romanticized depictions.

Madame Bovary: Flaubert's most famous work, telling the story of Emma Bovary, a woman whose desire for romance and luxury leads to her downfall, reflecting themes of disillusionment and societal constraints.

Narrative Style: The distinctive way an author tells a story, which in Flaubert's case involves a focus on precise language, intricate detail, and a detached narrative voice.