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oscard99 's review for:
Madame Bovary
by Gustave Flaubert
I should start by saying that this novel was a masterclass in detailed story and character work. Even in translation, the language flows effortlessly and it is clear that Flaubert spend a great deal of time making Emma completely human through outstanding imagery and metaphorical language. Emma herself is one of the most fascinating protagonists of all time and I must commend the author on allowing a female character in 19th century literature feel a range of emotions and desires. and not stereotypical values held at the time by society. Emma's lust for romanticism is one of the novel's greatest tragedies. She may be selfish and vile in the way she treats others, but the character created never feels forced and always is able to be empathized with. The only complaint I had about this novel was that I would have liked a more compact and leaner story. However if a longer and slower narrative means clever character work then so be it.