Flaubert, Gustave meaning

Flaubert, Gustave definitions

Gustave Flaubert was a prominent French novelist best known for his masterpiece, Madame Bovary, published in 1857. Born on December 12, 1821, in Rouen, France, Flaubert is hailed as one of the leading figures in literary realism, a movement that aimed to portray ordinary life without idealization or exaggeration.

Early Life and Education

Flaubert came from a wealthy family and received an excellent education. He studied law in Paris but decided to pursue a career in writing instead. Flaubert's love for literature began at an early age, and he was heavily influenced by the works of William Shakespeare, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, and Lord Byron.

Major Works

One of Flaubert's most famous works, Madame Bovary, stirred controversy upon its publication due to its exploration of female sexuality and societal conventions. The novel follows the tragic life of Emma Bovary, a woman unhappy with her provincial life and embarks on escapades that lead to her downfall.

Writing Style and Legacy

Flaubert was known for his meticulous attention to detail and dedication to perfecting his prose. He coined the term "le mot juste," which means the perfect word, emphasizing the importance of precise language in literature. His dedication to craft and innovative storytelling techniques influenced generations of writers, including Marcel Proust and James Joyce.

Flaubert's other notable works include Salammbo, Sentimental Education, and Three Tales. Despite facing criticism during his lifetime, Flaubert's literary contributions are now widely celebrated, and he is considered a literary giant of the 19th century.

In his later years, Flaubert retreated to his estate in Croisset, where he continued to write and correspond with fellow writers. He passed away on May 8, 1880, leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking literature that continues to captivate readers worldwide.

Flaubert, Gustave Examples

1. Gustave Flaubert was known for his meticulous attention to detail in his writing.
2. The novel Madame Bovary, written by Flaubert, is considered a masterpiece of realist fiction.
3. Scholars often study Flaubert's works to better understand 19th-century French literature.
4. Many critics consider Flaubert's writing style to be groundbreaking for its time.
5. Flaubert's dedication to his craft is evident in the extensive revisions he made to his manuscripts.
6. Students studying literature may be required to read Flaubert's works as part of their curriculum.
7. Flaubert's novel Sentimental Education explores themes of disillusionment and societal change.
8. Flaubert's influence on the development of the modern novel cannot be understated.
9. The character Emma Bovary, created by Flaubert, is often cited as an example of a tragic heroine.
10. Flaubert's writing has inspired generations of authors to push the boundaries of literary expression.

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