Gustave Flaubert

Date of Birth: December 12, 1821

Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius

Date of Death: May 8, 1880

Biography

Gustave Flaubert was a renowned French novelist born on December 12, 1821, in Rouen, France. He is celebrated for his precise literary style and his profound influence on literature, especially through his masterpiece “Madame Bovary.” Flaubert’s meticulous approach to writing and his focus on realism made him a key figure in the literary movement of the 19th century. He spent much of his life in his birthplace, Rouen, and later in Croisset, near the Seine River. Flaubert began writing at a young age and showed early promise. Despite initial plans to study law, he abandoned his studies due to health issues and dedicated himself entirely to literature. His first published work, “Madame Bovary” (1857), faced legal prosecution for obscenity, but eventually became a seminal work of French literature, praised for its detailed characterizations and exploration of middle-class life. Other notable works by Flaubert include “Sentimental Education,” “Salammbô,” and “The Temptation of Saint Anthony.” His correspondence with other literary figures, such as George Sand, also provides valuable insights into his writing process and the literary culture of his time. Flaubert passed away on May 8, 1880, in Croisset, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence writers and readers worldwide.

5 Interesting Facts about Gustave Flaubert

1. Gustave Flaubert was prosecuted for obscenity after the publication of “Madame Bovary,” but he was acquitted, and the novel gained immense popularity.

2. He had a close friendship with fellow novelist George Sand, and their extensive correspondence provides valuable insights into the literary culture of the 19th century.

3. Flaubert was known for his painstaking writing process, often spending days to perfect a single sentence.

4. Despite his literary success, Flaubert faced financial difficulties later in life due to poor investments and the debts of his niece, Caroline.

5. He never married and had no children, dedicating his life entirely to his literary pursuits.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Gustave Flaubert

1. “The art of writing is the art of discovering what you believe.”

2. “Be regular and orderly in your life so that you may be violent and original in your work.”

3. “There is no truth. There is only perception.”

4. “Language is a cracked kettle on which we beat out tunes for bears to dance to, while all the time we long to move the stars to pity.”

5. “Do not read as children do to amuse themselves, or like the ambitious for the purpose of instruction. No, read in order to live.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Flaubert did not achieve significant wealth during his lifetime, and his financial situation was often precarious. His highest net worth is not well-documented, but he was not known for substantial financial success.