Gustave Flaubert
Biography
Gustave Flaubert (1821–1880) was a French novelist widely regarded as one of the greatest prose stylists in any language and a founding figure of literary realism. Born in Rouen to a prominent medical family, Flaubert devoted himself to literature with monastic discipline, spending years perfecting each novel. His masterpiece Madame Bovary (1857) was prosecuted for obscenity upon publication but is now recognized as one of the most important novels ever written. His historical novel Salammbô and his short fiction further demonstrate his extraordinary range. Flaubert’s obsessive pursuit of le mot juste (the exact right word) established the standard for modern literary prose.
Common themes in Gustave Flaubert's work
Literary realism
A recurring theme throughout Gustave Flaubert's writing.
French literature
A recurring theme throughout Gustave Flaubert's writing.
Le mot juste
A recurring theme throughout Gustave Flaubert's writing.
Madame Bovary
A recurring theme throughout Gustave Flaubert's writing.
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Why Gustave Flaubert is still read today
Flaubert’s novels remain essential reading for anyone interested in literary fiction. Madame Bovary in particular is one of the most studied and admired novels in world literature. On TextStack you can read Flaubert’s masterworks free online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Gustave Flaubert?
Gustave Flaubert (1821–1880) was a French novelist considered one of the greatest prose stylists in world literature. His masterpiece Madame Bovary helped establish literary realism.
Where can I read Flaubert online?
You can read Madame Bovary, Salammbô, and Flaubert’s Short Fiction in English translation free online on TextStack.
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