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A Simple Soul   By: (1821-1880)

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Gustave Flaubert's novella A Simple Soul takes readers on an intimate journey through the life of Félicité, a seemingly ordinary woman in 19th century France. This deeply moving and compassionate story explores themes of love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships.

Through Félicité's eyes, Flaubert masterfully captures the essence of a simple life, enveloping his readers in a poignant and heartfelt narrative. As we follow Félicité from her humble beginnings as a servant to her eventual role as a loyal and devoted caretaker, Flaubert seamlessly weaves together the narratives of her personal experiences and those around her.

What stands out most about this novella is Flaubert's ability to delve into the emotional depths of his characters. Félicité's unwavering loyalty and commitment to those she loves deeply resonate with readers. Despite her lack of formal education and life's hardships, her purity of heart shines through, offering a refreshing portrayal of innocence and genuine goodness.

Flaubert's prose is elegant and evocative, painting vivid landscapes and capturing the nuances of everyday life with meticulous attention to detail. His ability to portray the inextricable connection between humans and the natural world is particularly impressive, enhancing the overall richness of the story.

One element that may strike readers is the underlying melancholic tone that permeates the novella. Flaubert subtly hints at the inevitable heartaches and disappointments that life brings, emphasizing the fragility of human existence. This bittersweet touch adds depth to the story and strengthens its emotional impact.

While the novella is relatively short, Flaubert's characterization is masterful, providing readers with a deep understanding of Félicité's inner world. Through her experiences, he examines the complexities of love and the profound impact it has on an individual's existence. The relationships she fosters, albeit often fleeting and tinged with tragedy, offer a compelling exploration of human connection and the yearning for love and affection.

A Simple Soul is a beautifully composed novella that offers readers a glimpse into the fragile beauty of ordinary lives. Flaubert skillfully captures the essence of human complexity, reminding us of the profound impact even the simplest of souls can have on the world. This poignant and compelling story is sure to resonate with readers long after they turn the final page.

First Page:

A SIMPLE SOUL

By Gustave Flaubert

CHAPTER I

For half a century the housewives of Pont l'Eveque had envied Madame Aubain her servant Felicite.

For a hundred francs a year, she cooked and did the housework, washed, ironed, mended, harnessed the horse, fattened the poultry, made the butter and remained faithful to her mistress although the latter was by no means an agreeable person.

Madame Aubain had married a comely youth without any money, who died in the beginning of 1809, leaving her with two young children and a number of debts. She sold all her property excepting the farm of Toucques and the farm of Geffosses, the income of which barely amounted to 5,000 francs; then she left her house in Saint Melaine, and moved into a less pretentious one which had belonged to her ancestors and stood back of the market place. This house, with its slate covered roof, was built between a passage way and a narrow street that led to the river. The interior was so unevenly graded that it caused people to stumble. A narrow hall separated the kitchen from the parlour, where Madame Aubain sat all day in a straw armchair near the window. Eight mahogany chairs stood in a row against the white wainscoting. An old piano, standing beneath a barometer, was covered with a pyramid of old books and boxes... Continue reading book >>




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