Flaubert, say it already!

Dr. Pelletier commented on the Realism novel. She stated that during this time period, change came so fast that writers used the novel to describe something they didn’t quite understand. After reading Flaubert’s Sentimental Education, I certainly empathize.

At the novel’s conclusion, I was left questioning its significance. I felt bombarded with historical context that I did not fully understand as well as a plethora of characters whose names and individual representations I would not be able to remember. There was just too much going on. Dr. Pelletier mentioned that Flaubert wrote slowly. This is certainly evident in the richness of this text in terms of quantity of detailed information. To fully grasp this novel, I would have to spend a great deal of time doing research and filter through the abundance of description. Therefore, I feel I did not understand the novel to the extent that Flaubert, perhaps, had hoped.

I believe Flaubert was successful with his notion that his literature should not be “entertaining” and “available for all.” Though a bit of a pompous statement, it was true in my case as I am an ignorant fool who does not appreciate the genius of Flaubert.

If reading this novel reveals my true character, much like a personality test, I guess I am a simple-minded dope who gets bored when people talk too much.

Oh and I must make one more comment in regards to Frederic. I became rather annoyed during a particular part of the novel. It has to do with the scene near the end where Frederic finally admits his love for Madame Arnoux. The narrator comments on her grey hair, which causes Frederic to question his love for her. God forbid that a woman grow old! I mean, without beauty, what good is a woman? And I am sure Frederic is just the hottest guy in all of France. I got a bit upset at that remark as my eyes rolled in the back of my head numerous times.

Perhaps this reveals even more of my character… or maybe I was just ticked off that day because I was told women shouldn’t be president because we are too “emotional,” particularly in regards to war. After all, men have done such a great job… women might ruin it! But I digress.