Flaubert

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Gustave Flaubert, whose <i>Madame Bovary</i> scandalized the bourgeoisie upon its 1857 release, is vividly depicted in Frederick Brown's biography, showcasing his unique brilliance and contradictions. Flaubert, a naturally sedentary man, embarked on grand journeys through Egypt and the Middle East. His flamboyant nature coexisted with a deep commitment to crafting beautifully cadenced prose. While he thrived on friendships with literary figures like Turgenev, Zola, and Maupassant, he sought emotional support from maternal figures, notably George Sand. Flaubert faced a trial in 19th-century France for the 'lewd behavior' depicted in <i>Madame Bovary</i>, which ironically elevated his celebrity status but also contributed to his financial downfall and premature death at fifty-nine. Writing was often torturous for him, yet it consumed his thoughts and life. He yearned for popular success, which he attained with <i>Madame Bovary</i>, but refused to compromise his artistic integrity. Brown's insightful biography reveals Flaubert's inner world, his era, and his enduring legacy. It was shortlisted for the Whitbread Prize for biography and was a finalist for the National Book Critics Circle Award.