Madame Bovary

by Gustave Flaubert
Madame Bovary cover
Good Books rating 4.36
Literary Fiction
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  • ID: 1475
  • Added: 2025-10-06
  • Updated: 2025-10-19
  • ISBN: 9780192840394
  • Publisher: OUP Oxford
  • Published: 2004-04-08
  • Formats: 78
  • Reviews: 4

Emma Bovary, a woman trapped in a dull provincial life with her husband Charles, dreams of the romantic and luxurious existence she reads about in novels. Her quest to escape the monotony leads her into extramarital affairs and a spiral of deceit and despair. Flaubert's masterpiece, first published in 1857, is renowned for its unparalleled character and societal unveiling, and this new translation by Margaret Mauldon captures Flaubert's distinctive style perfectly. The novel remains a timeless exploration of human desires and the consequences of chasing unrealistic dreams. Madame Bovary was controversial upon its release, challenging the societal norms of its time. Its intricate portrayal of Emma's inner turmoil and the societal constraints she faces makes it a profound study of human psychology and the impact of romantic ideals on reality. The novel's enduring legacy lies in its ability to critique both individual behavior and the broader societal structures that shape it.

Reviews
The Invisible Melior · 2022-01-01
profound 4.00

The novel is a masterpiece but may not appeal to those seeking a happier ending. It offers a deep and insightful look into the human condition.

The reviewer from The Invisible Melior recommends Madame Bovary as a masterpiece, despite its lack of a happy ending. They find the novel to be deeply insightful, offering a profound look into the human condition. The reviewer appreciates the intricate character development and the themes that resonate long after the last page is turned. However, they caution that readers looking for a happier narrative might be disappointed. Overall, the novel is seen as a significant work of literature that deserves its place in the canon.

Quick quotes

    I recommend Madame Bovary by Gustave Flaubert because it's truly a masterpiece.

    If you are looking for a happier ending like I was, this is not the book for you.

    The novel offers a deep and insightful look into the human condition.

Julia's Books · 2018-04-27
sublime 4.75

The writing is sublime and the novel is masterful, showcasing Flaubert's perfectionism. It is a profound exploration of human desires and their consequences.

The reviewer at Julia's Books is captivated by Flaubert's sublime writing and the novel's masterful execution. They appreciate the depth of the characters and the profound exploration of human desires and their consequences. The reviewer also notes how Flaubert's perfectionism shines through in every page, making the reading experience both enriching and thought-provoking. They find the novel to be a timeless piece of literature that continues to resonate with readers.

Quick quotes

    By all accounts, Flaubert was a perfectionist and spent years on this book; it is certainly masterful and for me the writing was sublime.

    The novel is a profound exploration of human desires and their consequences.

    Flaubert's perfectionism shines through in every page, making the reading experience both enriching and thought-provoking.

Changing Pages · 2016-06-21
profound 4.20

The story of a woman who is never satisfied and brings misery to herself and others. The novel is a profound exploration of human nature.

The reviewer delves into the character of Emma Bovary, noting her constant dissatisfaction and the turmoil it causes. They see the novel as a profound exploration of human nature, particularly the destructive power of unfulfilled desires. The reviewer appreciates Flaubert's ability to create a character who is both relatable and tragic, making the story compelling and thought-provoking.

Quick quotes

    So this is the story of a woman who is never satisfied, always wants what she cannot have and consequently brings endless misery to herself and others.

    Flaubert's portrayal of Emma Bovary is both relatable and tragic.

    The novel is a profound exploration of human nature and the destructive power of unfulfilled desires.

The Guardian · Lydia Davis · 2010-11-27
masterful 4.50

The new translation captures the filmic quality of Flaubert's narrative. It highlights the novel's timeless relevance and Flaubert's mastery of detail.

Lydia Davis praises the new translation for its ability to convey the filmic quality of Flaubert's writing, making the narrative more immersive. She appreciates the meticulous attention to detail that brings the story to life, making it feel relevant even today. Davis also highlights how the translation enhances the reader's experience by capturing the nuances of Flaubert's prose. Overall, she finds the novel to be a masterpiece that stands the test of time.

Quick quotes

    Lydia Davis's new translation of Madame Bovary captures for the first time in English the powerfully filmic aspect of Flaubert's narrative.

    The translation enhances the reading experience by bringing out the nuances of Flaubert's prose.

    The novel's timeless relevance is highlighted through this meticulous translation.

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