Major Issues
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Essay Questions

Major Issues

The large scope of Gustave Flaubert’s literary subjects is suggested by the fact that his first book led him to a trial for immorality and obscenity, while the final book published during his lifetime focused on three saintly martyrs. Flaubert himself found the matter of literary subjects much less compelling than that of literary style. He is famous for his relentless dedication to perfecting his style and for his search for "le mot juste," just the right word, and also the right phrasing, grammar, and punctuation. Flaubert’s work has been studied as exemplar of realism and, more specifically, "sordid realism." Scholars have discussed the narrative strategies that he employs in his efforts to tell a story from a position of objective neutrality, without authorial opinion creeping through. One such strategy is his employment of free indirect style, so that readers cannot know if an observation or idea originates with a character or with the narrator.

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Gustave Flaubert (1821-1880)
An introductory bio-critical essay which examines Flaubert’s personal relationships and his drive to achieve perfection in his writing.

Flaubert, Gustave
This essay overviews Flaubert’s life and literary career, as well as his major works and influences.

A Simple Heart
Theatre review of what sounds like a fascinating dance adaptation of Flaubert’s story.