Classic Literature

Madame Bovary Questions for Study and Discussion

Madame Bovary is one of the greatest works by Gustave Flaubert. Here are a few questions for study and discussion.

What is important about the title?
What are the conflicts in Madame Bovary? What types of conflict (physical, moral, intellectual, or emotional) are in the novel?
How does Gustave Flaubert reveal character in Madame Bovary?
What are some themes in the novel? How do they relate to the plot and characters?
What are some symbols in Madame Bovary? How do they relate to the plot and characters?
Is Emma consistent in her actions? Is she a fully developed character? How? Why?
How well does Flaubert portray the emotions of a woman?
How well does Emma relate to the other characters in the novel?
Do you find the characters likable? Are the characters persons you would want to meet?
Does the story end the way you expected? How? Why?
What is the central/primary purpose of the story? Is the purpose important or meaningful?
Do you consider this novel a work of feminist literature?
How essential is the setting to the story? Could the story have taken place anywhere else?
What is the role of women in the text? How are mothers represented? What about single/independent women? Could Emma ever have survived as a single woman?
Would you recommend this novel to a friend?

Guide since 2000

Esther Lombardi
Classic Literature Guide

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