For Lack of a Better Man
Gustave Flaubert presents one extreme side of human life many would very much rather think does not exist. He presents a tale of sensual symbolism within the life of Charles Bovary. Madame Bovary is the story of Emma Bovary, but within the scope of symbolic meaning, the make-up of Charles is addressed. It is representative of deep sadness and a despondent outlook on life whose many symbols are, at times, as deeply embedded in the story line as a thorn in a callous heel. The elements making up the very person of Charles Bovary remain excruciatingly evident, haunting his every move. Symbolic of his yearning for inner fulfillment, Charles Bovary presents to be a man in search of an unknown sensual satisfaction. It is no wonder, with the detailed writing the French government attempted to censor Flaubert when Madame Bovary was published in 1856. Although the vast majority of theorems penned revolve about the life of Emma, the character of Charles requires examining. In the opening scenes, Charles Bovary is seen entering a favorite “dive” of escape, an escape from the realities of life. The cafes he frequented appear as “dirty public rooms” (Fl
aubert 834) housing his passion for the game of dominoes. His obsession and pleasure from this simple entertainment are exposed as Flaubert describes Charles entrance into the den of dominoes. “[His esteem] was beginning to see life, the sweetness of stolen pleasures; and when he entered, he put his hand on the door handle with a joy almost sensual” (Flaubert 834). What, other than a profound uneasiness within his personal life, could bring about so explicit a pleasure from the entering to a dark, dank room? Charles is a pitiful sight to see. His rebellious nature toward the attaining of the goal of “physician,” as obviously prescribed by his parents, is directly related to Flaubert’s rebellion toward France in relation to enforced censorship. The mandatory overseeing of literature, and limitations thereof, are of prime importance when digesting Madame Bovary. Although it is talent that allows a writer to use and coordinate symbolic meanings within his works toward a specific goal, the plainspoken truth is more easily ingested and digested. There is merit in the skilled stating of ideals, symbolism in place, without making ones’ audience uncomfortable. However, within the pages of Madame Bovary lie a continuous excess of implication, insinuation, and suggestion. Conversely, there is Emma. Emma has her decision made on her behalf by her father the day of Charles’ last visit
Some common words found in the essay are:
Charles Bovary, Madame Bovary, Emma Emma, Emma Bovary, Gustave Flaubert, madame bovary, charles bovary, flaubert 834, flaubert madame, flaubert madame bovary, Flaubert Madame, student medicine,
Approximate Word count = 968
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)
|
