Author
Gustave Flaubert
1821-1880
Gustave Flaubert (1821-1880) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by Gustave Flaubert
Madame Bovary
"Madame Bovary" by Gustave Flaubert is a novel published in 1857. Emma Bovary, a beautiful young woman raised on romantic novels, marries a country doctor but finds provincial life suffocating. Craving luxury, passion, and high society, she seeks escape through increasingly reckless means. This groundbreaking work of literary realism caused scandal upon publication, with prosecutors attacking it as obscene. The resulting trial made it notorious before it became a bestseller and one of literature's most influential works.
A Simple Soul
"A Simple Soul" by Gustave Flaubert is a short story published in 1877. It follows Felicité, a devoted servant girl whose life is marked by loss and unwavering devotion. After her lover abandons her, she dedicates herself entirely to others—her mistress's children, her nephew, and eventually a pet parrot. Though everyone she loves dies and she ends her days in poverty, Felicité possesses an extraordinary capacity for love and a quiet, almost mystical spirituality that transcends her humble circumstances.
Salammbo
"Salammbo" by Gustave Flaubert is a historical novel published in 1862. Set in ancient Carthage during the Mercenary Revolt following the First Punic War, it follows Salammbô, a priestess and daughter of General Hamilcar Barca, who becomes entangled in a desperate conflict when a mercenary leader steals Carthage's sacred veil. The novel blends vivid historical detail with a tale of obsession, warfare, and forbidden desire as mercenaries besiege the city and Salammbô must navigate treacherous political and spiritual forces.
Sentimental Education; Or, The History of a Young Man. Volume 1
"Sentimental Education; Or, The History of a Young Man. Volume 1" by Gustave Flaubert is a novel published in 1869. Set against the French Revolution of 1848, it follows Frédéric Moreau, a young man hopelessly infatuated with an older married woman. As he drifts through Parisian society, Frédéric oscillates between romantic obsessions, friendships, and failed ambitions. Flaubert paints an ironic portrait of restless youth, capturing a generation marked by passion without purpose and desire without direction—a cynical meditation on love, society, and the feelings of his time.
Œuvres complètes de Gustave Flaubert, tome 1 (of 8): Madame Bovary
"Madame Bovary" by Gustave Flaubert is a novel published in 1857. It tells the story of Emma Bovary, the wife of a provincial doctor who pursues adulterous affairs and lives beyond her means to escape the boredom and mediocrity of country life. Upon publication, the novel sparked a notorious obscenity trial that made it instantly famous across France. Flaubert's acquittal led to overwhelming success, with the first edition selling out in two months. The work is considered one of the earliest examples of literary realism.
The Temptation of St. Anthony
"The Temptation of St. Anthony" by Gustave Flaubert is a dramatic poem in prose published in 1874. Written in the form of a play script, it recounts one night in the Egyptian desert where Saint Anthony the Great faces a series of profound temptations. Through encounters with figures ranging from the Queen of Sheba to his former student Hilarion, Anthony confronts the Seven Deadly Sins, ancient gods, heretics, and monsters—all challenging his belief that isolation is the truest form of worship.
Bouvard and Pécuchet: A Tragi-comic Novel of Bourgeois Life, part 1
"Bouvard and Pécuchet: A Tragi-comic Novel of Bourgeois Life, part 1" by Gustave Flaubert is an unfinished satirical novel published in 1881. Two Parisian copy-clerks meet by chance and become inseparable friends. When one inherits a fortune, they move to the French countryside and embark on an ambitious quest for knowledge. Over years, they attempt to master nearly every field—agriculture, science, literature, philosophy, religion—but each endeavor ends in failure. Their misadventures expose the hidden weaknesses of human understanding while alienating them from their provincial neighbors.
Bouvard and Pécuchet: A Tragi-comic Novel of Bourgeois Life, part 2
"Bouvard and Pécuchet: A Tragi-comic Novel of Bourgeois Life" by Gustave Flaubert is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows two middle-aged clerks, Bouvard and Pécuchet, who, after coming into an inheritance, abandon their previous lives to pursue a multitude of interests, ultimately leading them to the study of various aspects of knowledge, religion, and education. The book explores themes of ambition, the absurdity of attempts to acquire knowledge, and the futility of the bourgeois aspiration for self-improvement. The opening of the text introduces us to Bouvard and Pécuchet after they've experienced the mundane routines of their earlier lives. Both characters are depicted as somewhat hapless yet earnest as they navigate the complexities of newfound interests, including their dabbling in religious practices, art, and philosophy. Their initial attempts to engage with pious texts and rituals reflect their longing for meaning and fulfillment in life, revealing their character's deep desire for connection and understanding. The tone is a blend of tragedy and comedy as their earnest endeavors often come to comical failures, setting the stage for their exploration of both enlightenment and folly that will unfold throughout the novel.
Sentimental Education; Or, The History of a Young Man. Volume 2
"Sentimental Education; Or, The History of a Young Man. Volume 2" by Gustave Flaubert is a novel published in 1869. It follows Frédéric Moreau, a young man consumed by his passion for an older married woman, against the backdrop of the French Revolution of 1848. Through ironic and pessimistic prose, Flaubert traces Moreau's romantic entanglements with multiple women, his wavering ambitions, and his inability to commit to love or career. The novel portrays a generation marked by capriciousness, materialism, and the worship of power.
Œuvres complètes de Gustave Flaubert, tome 6: Trois contes, suivis de mélanges inédits
"Œuvres complètes de Gustave Flaubert, tome 6: Trois contes, suivis de mélanges…" by Gustave Flaubert is a collection of three novellas published in 1877. This work, which took nearly thirty years to complete, became Flaubert's final finished literary achievement. The collection spans three distinct historical periods: a medieval saint's legend, a contemporary portrait of a devoted servant's simple life in Normandy, and an ancient tale of Saint John the Baptist's beheading. Each story explores profound human devotion through different lenses of faith and sacrifice.
Madame Bovary: A Tale of Provincial Life, Vol. 1 (of 2)
"Madame Bovary: A Tale of Provincial Life, Vol. 1 (of 2)" by Gustave Flaubert is a novel published in 1856-1857. Emma Bovary, a young woman trapped in a dull marriage to a country doctor, yearns for the passion and luxury she has read about in novels. Seeking escape from provincial monotony, she pursues dangerous romantic entanglements and reckless spending that spiral beyond her control. This landmark work of literary realism caused scandal upon publication, facing obscenity charges that made it notorious before becoming a bestseller.
Frau Bovary
"Frau Bovary" by Gustave Flaubert is a novel published in 1856-1857. Emma Bovary, a young woman trapped in provincial life, yearns for luxury and romance inspired by her beloved novels. Married to a modest country doctor, she seeks escape through infatuation and affairs while accumulating devastating debts. This seminal work of literary realism sparked an obscenity trial that made it notorious before becoming a bestseller and one of the most influential novels in history.
The Temptation of St. Antony; Or, A Revelation of the Soul
"The Temptation of St. Antony; Or, A Revelation of the Soul" by Gustave Flaubert is a dramatic poem in prose published in 1874. Written as a play script, it chronicles one night in the Egyptian desert as Saint Anthony the Great faces extraordinary temptations. The Devil, seductive figures, heretics, magicians, gods, and monsters parade before the hermit saint, testing his faith and resolve. Each visitor challenges Anthony's belief that isolation is the truest form of worship, pulling him toward desire, doubt, and despair in an epic battle for his soul.
Index of the Project Gutenberg Works of Gustave Flaubert
"Index of the Project Gutenberg Works of Gustave Flaubert" by Gustave Flaubert is a compilation of various literary works, including novels, plays, and essays, from one of the most celebrated authors of the 19th century. This collection brings together a range of Flaubert's writings, offering insight into themes of existentialism, social critique, and complex human emotions. The works included span the period of the late 19th century, showcasing Flaubert's contributions to the literary canon during this time. The index features pivotal works such as "Madame Bovary," which tells the tragic story of Emma Bovary, a woman trapped in a mundane provincial life, longing for romance and excitement. Other notable entries include "Sentimental Education," which explores the disillusionment of youth and love, and "Salammbô," set in ancient Carthage, highlighting themes of passion and conflict. Flaubert's works are characterized by their rich language and intricate character studies, reflecting his keen observations of society and human nature. This index serves as a valuable resource for readers interested in exploring the depth and breadth of Flaubert's literary legacy.
Œuvres complètes de Gustave Flaubert, tome 7: Bouvard et Pécuchet
"Œuvres complètes de Gustave Flaubert, tome 7: Bouvard et Pécuchet" by Gustave Flaubert is an unfinished novel published posthumously in 1881. Two copyists meet by chance in Paris and discover their shared interests. When an inheritance allows them to retire to the countryside, they enthusiastically attempt to master every field of knowledge—agriculture, science, archaeology, literature, politics, philosophy, and religion. Armed only with popular books and haphazard advice, their systematic experiments produce nothing but disasters, revealing the gap between their ambitions and their understanding.
Herodias
"Herodias" by Gustave Flaubert is a short story published in 1877 as part of Three Tales. Set in ancient Judea, the story retells the biblical account of John the Baptist's execution. During a lavish birthday celebration for Herod Antipas, his wife Herodias orchestrates a cunning plan involving her daughter Salomé to secure the prophet's beheading. As John has repeatedly insulted the royal family, the plot unfolds with calculated precision before an anxious crowd, ending as the Baptist's disciples await the coming Messiah.
Œuvres de jeunesse inédites. II: 1839-1842. Œuvres diverses.—Novembre.
"Œuvres de jeunesse inédites. II: 1839-1842. Œuvres diverses.—Novembre" by Gustave Flaubert is a collection of unpublished works likely written during the early 19th century. This volume includes various essays and reflections that explore themes of art, commerce, and the existential struggles of humanity. Flaubert delves into the conflict between artistic expression and the utilitarian values of society, with a particular emphasis on the role of poetry and the arts in fulfilling the deeper needs of the human spirit. The opening of this work presents an impassioned discourse on the perceived triviality of the arts in comparison to the dominance of commerce and materialism in society. Flaubert argues fervently that while many people devalue art as merely a pastime or ornamental distraction, the true worth of poetry and artistic endeavor lies in their ability to nourish the soul and elevate human experience. Through dialogues that touch upon both the joys and contradictions inherent in the pursuit of knowledge, Flaubert's exploration invites readers to contemplate the deeper truths of existence, the nature of creativity, and the interwoven fates of the artist and society.
Œuvres complètes de Gustave Flaubert, tome 2: Salammbô
"Œuvres complètes de Gustave Flaubert, tome 2: Salammbô" by Gustave Flaubert is a historical novel published in 1862. Set in third-century BC Carthage, it depicts the Mercenary War between the city and barbarian mercenaries who revolted after being denied promised wages following the First Punic War. Flaubert traveled to Tunisia in 1858 to immerse himself in the landscape and atmosphere. He created a vivid, sensual, and violent portrait of an exotic ancient world, drawing on limited historical sources to craft his epic tale.
Salambó
"Salambó" by Gustave Flaubert is a historical novel published in 1862. Set in third-century BC Carthage during the Mercenary War following Carthage's defeat by Rome, the story follows Salammbô, a priestess and fictional daughter of General Hamilcar Barca. When unpaid mercenaries revolt against the city, their leader Matho becomes obsessed with Salammbô and steals Carthage's sacred veil—the zaimph—believed to protect the city. Flaubert meticulously reconstructs Carthaginian culture through detailed descriptions of battles, customs, and daily life, blending historical figures with romantic fiction.
Œuvres complètes de Gustave Flaubert, tome 3: L'éducation sentimentale, v. 1
"L'éducation sentimentale, v. 1" by Gustave Flaubert is a novel published in 1869. Set against the backdrop of the 1848 revolution, it follows Frédéric Moreau, an eighteen-year-old provincial who comes to Paris for his studies. There he falls deeply in love with Marie Arnoux, a married woman, while navigating friendships, politics, and the changing tides of French society. Through this unrequited passion and life's contingencies, Frédéric gradually burns through his romantic illusions in what Flaubert conceived as a portrait of an entire generation.
Three short works The Dance of Death, the Legend of Saint Julian the Hospitaller, a Simple Soul.
"Three Short Works by Gustave Flaubert" by Gustave Flaubert is a collection of short stories published in 1877. The work comprises three distinct tales: the story of a devoted servant whose simple life reveals an extraordinary capacity for love, a medieval legend about a nobleman cursed to commit patricide who seeks redemption through service, and a retelling of the biblical story of John the Baptist's execution at Herod's court. Each story explores themes of devotion, fate, and spiritual transformation through vastly different settings and characters.
Un coeur simple
"Un coeur simple" by Gustave Flaubert is a short story published in 1877 as part of Three Tales. It follows Felicité, a devoted servant girl whose lover abandons her to avoid military service. Working in a widow's household, she pours her affection into others—her mistress's children, her distant nephew, and eventually a pet parrot. Loss follows her at every turn, yet she continues to love without expectation of return. As her simple, unexamined life draws to a close, her humble devotion takes on an unexpected spiritual dimension.
Œuvres complètes de Gustave Flaubert, tome 4: L'éducation sentimentale, v. 2
"L'Éducation sentimentale" by Gustave Flaubert is a novel published in 1869. Set against the backdrop of the 1848 revolution, it follows Frédéric Moreau, a sensitive young provincial who comes to Paris at eighteen. Through his passionate but inactive love for the married Marie Arnoux and encounters with art, politics, and society, Frédéric gradually burns through his romantic illusions. The novel portrays an entire generation's dreams and failures, painting a detailed portrait of French society from monarchy through republic to empire.
Œuvres complètes de Gustave Flaubert, tome 5: La tentation de saint Antoine
"Œuvres complètes de Gustave Flaubert, tome 5: La tentation de saint Antoine" by Gustave Flaubert is a prose narrative published in 1874. Alone in the desert, the hermit Saint Antoine confronts a series of troubling visions: temptations of lust and power, his disciple questioning scriptural contradictions, and revelations of the universe's secrets. Through vivid, symbolic tableaux, this work blends the fourth-century Greco-Latin world with modern theories, following one man's odyssey without movement as he faces the demons of memory and desire.