(1821-1880) Gustave Flaubert was a French novelist. He's recognized as one of the greatest writers in world literature, well-known for the scandalous controversies of Madame Bovary. He's representative of Realism. He wanted to capture his subjects in truth, no matter whether the portrayal came across as beauty or ugliness. He was great friends with George Sand (their relationship is well documented in the letters that have survived).
Birth:
Gustave Flaubert was born in Rouen. His family was wealthy, filled with doctors: his father was a surgeon, and his grandfather (on his mother's side) was a physician.
Education:
Gustave Flaubert attended the Lycée Pierre Corneille in Roen, and then studied law in Paris. He also began writing at an early age (8 years old), and was ever the perfectionist.
After a "nervous attack" in 1844, Flaubert failed his law exams and devoted himself to writing.
