Book Review: Madame Bovary by Gustave Flaubert

It’s 200 years this year since Gustave Flaubert was born and so if you haven’t curled up with one of his classics yet, it’s high time you did! Madame Bovary was his first novel, and when it was published in 1856 Flaubert was taken to court (and acquitted) on charges of obscenity.

It tells the tale of Emma Bovary, a woman who lives beyond her means in order to escape the misery of provincial life in northern France. It traces her life and, often complicated loves, and her eventual, tragic demise. Considered a masterpiece of literary realism, it’s definitely one to sink your teeth into.

Madame Bovary by Gustave Flaubert
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From France Today magazine
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