55 pages • 1 hour read
Madame Bovary
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Book Brief
329
Novel • Fiction
France • 1840s
1856
Adult
18+ years
920L
Super Short Summary
Madame Bovary by Gustave Flaubert follows Emma Bovary, who marries Charles Bovary expecting a life of excitement and romantic fulfillment. Disillusioned with her mundane marriage, Emma pursues extramarital affairs and lavish spending to escape her dissatisfaction. Her reckless actions lead to financial ruin and personal despair, ultimately resulting in her tragic demise. The narrative addresses sensitive topics including intimate partner violence, self-inflicted death, and prejudiced portrayals of marginalized groups.
Melancholic
Mysterious
Bittersweet
Dark
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Gustave Flaubert's Madame Bovary is lauded for its intricate character development and pioneering realism, offering a deep exploration of the protagonist's psyche. Critics praise its meticulous prose and critical examination of bourgeois society. However, some find the narrative slow-paced and the characters unlikable, which may impede reader engagement.
Who Should Read Madame Bovary?
A reader who enjoys Madame Bovary by Gustave Flaubert would appreciate richly detailed narratives, psychological depth, and critiques of bourgeois society. Fans of Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy or James Joyce's Ulysses will likely be captivated by Flaubert's masterful storytelling and complex characterization.
Charles Bovary
Charles Bovary
Emma's husband and a devoted doctor, characterized by his average nature and inability to comprehend Emma’s desires and the intricacies of her character.
Monsieur Homais
Monsieur Homais
The town pharmacist who engages in various town affairs and serves as a critique of societal norms through his outspoken opinions.
Rodolphe
Rodolphe
A wealthy bachelor known for his charm and love of seducing women, whose affair with Emma influences her perception of love.
Léon
Léon
A young, educated man who shares a connection with Emma through their love for literature, leading to a significant relationship in the narrative.
Monsieur Lheureux
Monsieur Lheureux
A shrewd pawnbroker and moneylender who capitalizes on Emma's obsession with luxury, driving her further into financial distress.
329
Novel • Fiction
France • 1840s
1856
Adult
18+ years
920L
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