Bouvard and Pécuchet

Exploring the folly of human ambition and the pursuit of knowledge, this novel follows two clerks, Bouvard and Pécuchet, who attempt to master various disciplines, from agriculture to philosophy, only to fail spectacularly in each endeavor. Their relentless quest for understanding highlights the absurdity of their efforts and critiques the societal obsession with education and expertise. Flaubert's satirical narrative delves into themes of ignorance, the limitations of self-education, and the comedic aspects of human nature.