Madame Bovary (Bilingual Edition: English-French): A Classic of French Literature

Gustave Flaubert

Dec 2023 · DigiCat

About this ebook

Gustave Flaubert's novel 'Madame Bovary' is a timeless classic that intertwines elements of realism and romanticism. Set in 19th-century France, the book follows the life of Emma Bovary, a passionate and discontented woman trapped in a stifling marriage. Flaubert's meticulous attention to detail and vivid descriptions elevate the story to a level of literary excellence. The dual-language edition allows readers to fully appreciate Flaubert's mastery in both English and French. The novel's exploration of societal expectations, desires, and consequences remains relevant today, making it a compelling read for lovers of classic literature. Flaubert's precise prose and deep insight into human nature make 'Madame Bovary' a must-read for anyone interested in the complexities of the human heart and mind.

About the author

Gustave Flaubert (1821-1880) is widely acknowledged as one of the greatest novelists of the 19th century, renowned for his scrupulous devotion to his art and style. Born in Rouen, France, Flaubert's early life in a family of doctors impressed upon him the importance of meticulous observation, a trait that profoundly informed his literary work. He is best known for his debut novel, 'Madame Bovary' (1857), a groundbreaking work that sparked a legal trial for obscenity due to its frank portrayal of adultery and middle-class hypocrisy. However, the novel's eventual exoneration and acclaim substantiated Flaubert's literary approach. 'Madame Bovary' is not merely celebrated in its original French but also lauded in bilingual editions, such as the 'Madame Bovary (Bilingual Edition: English-French)', underscoring the work's impact on both French literature and its significant international audience. Flaubert's pursuit of le mot juste ('the precise word') illustrates his commitment to literary finesse and realism. Flaubert's influence extends through literature, shaping realism and literary modernism. His contemporaries, such as Émile Zola and Henry James, revered his craft, and his impact resonates in the works of writers like Proust and Kafka. Flaubert's meticulous prose and complex characters continue to captivate readers and scholars, making his contributions to literature both timeless and universal.