This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

1. 1. Madame Bovary

   

   Madame Bovary is a tragic novel about a young woman, Emma Bovary, who is married to a dull, but kind-hearted doctor. Dissatisfied with her life, she embarks on a series of extramarital affairs and indulges in a luxurious lifestyle in an attempt to escape the banalities and emptiness of provincial life. Her desire for passion and excitement leads her down a path of financial ruin and despair, ultimately resulting in a tragic end.

   The 20th Greatest Book of All Time

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2. 2. A Sentimental Education

   

   A Sentimental Education is a classic French novel set in the mid-19th century, focusing on the life of a young man named Frederic Moreau. Frederic, from a provincial background, moves to Paris and becomes infatuated with an older woman, Madame Arnoux. The novel traces Frederic's life and romantic pursuits, as well as his friendships and experiences in Paris, against the backdrop of significant historical events like the 1848 Revolution. The story is a critique of the French middle class and their materialistic values, illustrating the disillusionment and moral corruption of the time.

   The 116th Greatest Book of All Time

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3. 3. Bouvard et Pécuchet

   

   "Bouvard et Pécuchet" is a satirical novel that chronicles the lives of two Parisian copy clerks, Bouvard and Pécuchet, who decide to retire in the countryside after unexpectedly inheriting a fortune. Their attempts to become gentlemen farmers are thwarted by a series of comical failures. The pair then embarks on a quest for knowledge in various fields such as medicine, literature, politics, and religion, but their efforts lead to more confusion and absurdity. The novel is a critique of intellectual pretensions and a commentary on the futility of human endeavor.

   The 491st Greatest Book of All Time

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4. 4. The George Sand-Gustave Flaubert Letters

   Translated by A.L. McKenzie

   

   This book is a compilation of the personal correspondence between two of the most prominent French literary figures of the 19th century. Their letters offer an intimate look into their lives, thoughts, and the deep friendship they shared. The exchange covers a wide range of topics, including their literary works, their critiques of each other's work, their views on contemporary society, politics, and culture, as well as their personal joys, sorrows, and struggles.

   The 1870th Greatest Book of All Time

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5. 5. A Simple Soul

   

   The book tells the story of Félicité, a devoted and selfless servant who spends her life working for her mistress, Madame Aubain. Despite experiencing personal losses and hardships, including the death of her beloved nephew and the loss of her parrot, Félicité's simple and pure heart remains uncorrupted by the bitterness of her circumstances. Her life is marked by her remarkable loyalty and deep affection for those she serves, and her story is a poignant exploration of the themes of love, devotion, and the search for spiritual fulfillment in the face of life's relentless challenges.

   The 2913th Greatest Book of All Time

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6. 6. Salammbô

   

   Set in ancient Carthage during the Mercenary War, the novel follows the tumultuous events that ensue after the First Punic War, as unpaid mercenary soldiers rebel against the wealthy city they once fought for. Amidst the backdrop of political intrigue and brutal warfare, a passionate and tragic love story unfolds between the beautiful and enigmatic daughter of a Carthaginian general and the leader of the mercenaries. The narrative is rich with historical detail, vivid depictions of exotic rituals, and the violent ebb and flow of power, culminating in a dramatic and bloody resolution that intertwines the fates of the city, the mercenaries, and the star-crossed lovers.

   The 4409th Greatest Book of All Time

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7. 7. The Letters Of Gustave Flaubert

   

   This collection offers an intimate glimpse into the life and mind of a renowned 19th-century French novelist through his personal correspondence. The letters reveal his thoughts on literature, art, and the creative process, as well as his relationships with family, friends, and fellow writers. They provide insight into his meticulous approach to writing and his struggles with the demands of his craft, while also capturing his wit, humor, and occasional bouts of melancholy. Through these letters, readers gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of his character and the cultural milieu of his time.

   The 4494th Greatest Book of All Time

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8. 8. Three Tales

   

   This collection of three distinct narratives explores the complexities of human nature and the intricacies of life through diverse settings and characters. The first tale delves into the life of a devout servant whose unwavering faith is tested by personal loss and societal changes. The second story transports readers to the ancient world, where a young man grapples with the tension between his desires and the expectations of his time. The final narrative is a poignant reflection on the passage of time and the enduring power of art, as seen through the eyes of a medieval sculptor. Together, these tales weave a rich tapestry of emotion, morality, and the timeless quest for meaning.

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9. 9. The Temptation Of St. Antony

   

   Set in the Egyptian desert, the narrative delves into the spiritual and psychological struggles of a hermit monk who is besieged by a series of vivid and surreal temptations. As he grapples with visions of wealth, power, sensuality, and philosophical debates, the monk's faith is tested by the personifications of various historical, religious, and mythical figures. Through a rich tapestry of allegorical encounters, the story explores themes of doubt, desire, and the eternal quest for spiritual enlightenment, ultimately portraying the inner turmoil of a soul in search of divine truth.

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10. 10. The Dictionary Of Accepted Ideas

    

    This satirical work offers a witty and incisive critique of the clichés and platitudes prevalent in 19th-century French society. Through a collection of alphabetically arranged entries, it humorously exposes the absurdity and banality of commonly accepted ideas, revealing the superficiality of conventional wisdom. Each entry is a sharp commentary on the mindless repetition of societal norms, encouraging readers to question the validity of widely held beliefs and to reflect on the nature of conformity and intellectual laziness.

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11. 11. The Letters Of Gustave Flaubert, 1857 1880

    

    This collection of personal correspondence offers a captivating glimpse into the mind of a literary genius during a transformative period in his life. Spanning over two decades, the letters reveal the author's intimate thoughts on the creative process, his struggles with the demands of writing, and his reflections on the social and political changes of the time. Through candid exchanges with friends, family, and fellow writers, readers gain insight into the author's unwavering dedication to his craft, his sharp wit, and his often critical view of the world around him. These letters not only illuminate the personal and professional life of a renowned writer but also serve as a testament to the enduring power of the written word.

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12. 12. November

    

    Set in the 19th century, this introspective narrative delves into the mind of a young man grappling with the pangs of unrequited love and existential ennui. As he reflects on his past, he recounts a poignant encounter with a mysterious woman who embodies both allure and melancholy. Through vivid descriptions and contemplative musings, the story explores themes of desire, memory, and the fleeting nature of human connections, painting a portrait of youthful longing and the inevitable passage of time.

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13. 13. Bibliomania

    

    Set in a quaint, dusty bookshop, the narrative delves into the obsessive world of a passionate bibliophile whose love for books transcends mere collection. The protagonist's insatiable desire for rare and valuable tomes leads him down a path of moral ambiguity, as he grapples with the boundaries between admiration and possession. As the story unfolds, the reader is drawn into a psychological exploration of the fine line between passion and madness, ultimately questioning the true cost of an all-consuming obsession.

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14. 14. Memoirs Of A Madman

    

    In this introspective and poignant narrative, the protagonist delves into the depths of his own psyche, exploring themes of existential angst and the search for meaning in a seemingly indifferent world. Through a series of fragmented thoughts and vivid memories, he reflects on his past experiences, unfulfilled desires, and the relentless passage of time. The narrative captures the essence of a tormented soul grappling with the complexities of identity and the elusive nature of happiness, ultimately painting a vivid portrait of the human condition in all its raw and unfiltered reality.

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15. 15. Flaubert And Turgenev

    

    This book delves into the rich correspondence between two literary giants of the 19th century, exploring their mutual admiration and intellectual exchanges. Through their letters, the narrative unveils the profound friendship and shared literary philosophies that shaped their works and influenced the broader literary landscape. The text offers a unique glimpse into the personal and professional lives of these authors, highlighting their struggles, triumphs, and the enduring impact of their creative endeavors.

16. 16. Den Eviga Dumheten, Berättelsen Om Bouvard Och Pécuchet

    Berättelsen Om Bouvard Och Pécuchet

    

    This satirical novel follows the lives of two clerks who, after inheriting a fortune, decide to retire to the countryside and pursue a life of intellectual exploration. Their journey is a comedic exploration of human folly as they delve into various fields of knowledge, from agriculture to medicine, only to fail spectacularly in each endeavor. Through their relentless pursuit of wisdom and the inevitable blunders that follow, the narrative offers a humorous yet poignant critique of the limitations of human understanding and the absurdity of blind ambition.

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17. 17. Hjärtats Fostran

    

    Set against the backdrop of 19th-century France, this novel follows the life of a young man as he navigates the complexities of love, ambition, and societal expectations. Through a series of romantic entanglements and personal disappointments, the protagonist's journey reflects the broader themes of disillusionment and the pursuit of unattainable ideals. The narrative intricately weaves personal growth with historical events, offering a poignant critique of the era's social and political landscape.

18. 18. Collected Works Of Gustave Flaubert

    

    This compilation brings together the profound and meticulously crafted narratives of a master storyteller, offering a glimpse into the complexities of human nature and society. Through vivid prose and keen observation, the collection explores themes of desire, disillusionment, and the pursuit of authenticity. Each story is a testament to the author's ability to capture the intricacies of emotion and the often harsh realities of life, presenting a rich tapestry of characters and settings that resonate with timeless relevance.

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19. 19. Flaubert In Egypt

    A Sensibility on Tour

    

    A collection of letters and travel notes from an 1849–50 journey up the Nile, it blends lush depictions of Cairo’s streets, bazaars, and ancient temples with ribald episodes, illness, and logistical mishaps. The observer’s keen eye captures art, ritual, and everyday life, while candid, often erotic encounters and biting humor reveal both deep curiosity and the biases of a European traveler. The result is a sensuous, sometimes troubling portrait of Egypt that also charts the emergence of a distinctive literary voice.

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20. 20. Madame Bovary / Salammbô / Sentimental Education / The Temptation Of Saint Anthony / Bouvard & Pécuchet

    

    Which of those five books would you like a short single-paragraph summary of? Please specify one: Madame Bovary, Salammbô, Sentimental Education, The Temptation Of Saint Anthony, or Bouvard & Pécuchet.

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21. 21. The Temptation Of Saint Antony

    

    An ascetic desert hermit endures a series of spectacular, hallucinatory temptations—seductive visions, blasphemous philosophies, and dramatic apparitions that embody doubt, desire, and power—and is drawn into intense, theatrical debates with the voices that would lure him from his faith. The work unfolds as a succession of vivid set-pieces and dialogues in which incarnations of heresy, sensuality, pride, and skepticism test his convictions, exposing the fragility of belief and the force of imagination. Through lyrical description and polemical argument the narrative probes the clash between spiritual steadfastness and worldly illusion, portraying a tormented yet determined struggle to reaffirm fidelity in the face of overwhelming mental and moral turmoil.

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