The Public vs. M. Gustave Flaubert   By: Various

In "The Public vs. M. Gustave Flaubert" edited by Various, readers are treated to a compelling compilation of diverse viewpoints on the iconic French author, Gustave Flaubert. As the title suggests, this book delves into the intricate relationship between Flaubert's literary works and the public's perception of his artistry.

One of the outstanding aspects of this collection is its thoughtfully curated selection of essays and testimonies, each penned by different writers. This results in a multifaceted exploration of Flaubert's impact on readers, critics, and the literary sphere as a whole. The compilation traverses a wide spectrum of perspectives, ranging from profound admiration to vehement criticism, providing a comprehensive overview of Flaubert's contentious place within the public consciousness.

The book navigates through Flaubert's most famous works, including "Madame Bovary" and "Sentimental Education," shedding light on the controversies and debates that have surrounded them since their publication. Various writers offer nuanced interpretations, constructing a comprehensive mosaic of Flaubert's literary craftsmanship and its profound influence on subsequent generations of writers.

Additionally, the inclusion of contemporary essays examining Flaubert's relevance in the present day adds a refreshing layer to the ongoing discussion of his legacy. These perspectives highlight how Flaubert's exploration of love, desire, and the limitations of bourgeois existence continues to resonate with modern readers.

Despite its intellectual depth and scholarly approach, the collection remains accessible and engaging throughout. The writing maintains a gripping rhythm, drawing readers into the intellectual world of both Flaubert and those who have analyzed his works. The balanced inclusion of both revered scholars and fresh voices ensures a varied and intellectually stimulating reading experience.

However, while the anthology provides a comprehensive analysis of Flaubert's works, it could benefit from providing more contextual background information. Although the target audience likely possesses some knowledge of Flaubert, a brief introduction to his life and the historical and cultural context of his work would have enhanced the reading experience. A more robust explanation of each individual contributor's expertise or connection to Flaubert's corpus would also aid in readers' understanding of the diverse perspectives presented.

In conclusion, "The Public vs. M. Gustave Flaubert" is an impressive compilation that deftly delves into the complex relationship between Flaubert's writing and public reception. Its richness lies in the diverse range of voices and viewpoints, which contributes to a fuller understanding of Flaubert's significance as a literary figure. While the omission of substantial background information may diminish its accessibility for newcomers, the collection remains an invaluable resource for scholars and admirers of Flaubert's enduring literary legacy.

First Page:

Gentlemen, in entering upon this debate, the Public Attorney is in the presence of a difficulty which he cannot ignore. It cannot be put even in the nature of a condemnation, since offenses to public morals and to religion are somewhat vague and elastic expressions which it would be necessary to define precisely. Nevertheless, when we speak to right minded, practical men we are sure of being sufficiently understood to distinguish whether a certain page of a book carries an attack against religion and morals or not. The difficulty is not in arousing a prejudice, it is far more in explaining the work of which you are to judge. It deals entirely with romance. If it were a newspaper article which we were bringing before you, it could be seen at once where the fault began and where it ended; it would simply be read by the ministry and submitted to you for judgment. Here we are not concerned with a newspaper article, but entirely with a romance, which begins the first of October, finishes the fifteenth of December, and is composed of six numbers, in the Revue de Paris , 1856... Continue reading book >>