Over Strand and Field: A Record of Travel through Brittany (ePub)

Gustave Flaubert (1821-1880) was a French novelist renowned for his scrupulous devotion to his art and style, often considered the leading exponent of literary realism in his country. Born in Rouen, France, to a family of surgeons, Flaubert found his passion in literature rather than medicine. Flaubert's masterpiece, 'Madame Bovary' (1857), reflects his meticulous approach to writing, with every word chosen for its precise effect, showcasing his disdain for bourgeois society, a theme prevalent in much of his work. In addition to his more widely known novels, his travel literature, such as 'Over Strand and Field: A Record of Travel through Brittany', reveals Flaubert's keen observational skills and deep appreciation for the nuances of various landscapes and cultures. His quest for perfection in literary form, character depth, and authenticity was matched by a relentless pursuit of the le mot juste ('the exact word'). Notable works such as 'Salammbo' (1862) and 'Sentimental Education' (1869) further reflect his diverse narrative range and his critical examination of society. Flaubert's influence extended beyond his death, impacting literary greats such as Émile Zola and Marcel Proust. His literary realism and unyielding pursuit of stylistic perfection have cemented his reputation as one of the giants of 19th-century literature.