Wow.

Flaubert's book was originally published in the 1850s, and was widely criticised for it's immorality. This book really just aimed to describe reality. It absolutely did that, and did it wonderfully in my opinion.

I found that the characters in this book, in particular Madame Bovary, describe people I've known in real life to an impressive accuracy. The characters themselves have a colourful and often comical range of personalities. This is one of my favourite classics!

The drama in this book feels meticulously planned as in a Shakespearean play. There is often strong irony, humour, and contrasts that lead to deep insights into the characters. The settings are beautiful, vivid, and artistic. I savoured this book, read it very slowly, and it felt good. Usually reading a book slowly means I dislike it, but this is an exception.

I was also extremely disturbed by the horrors in this book. Just look to the wandering blindman, the sludge that slips out of a cadavers mouth, and you'll both be repelled and delighted!

6/5 ♪
(Note I read the penguin edition translated by Lydia Davis)