JOURNAL ARTICLE

Deciphering 1848: Repetition and Degradation in Madame Bovary.

  • Published In: Esprit Createur, 2023, v. 63, n. 3. P. 52 1 of 3

  • Database: Humanities Source Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: RayAlexander, Abigail 3 of 3

Abstract

A hidden code in Madame Bovary subtly deploys the cypher of 1848 to critique Victor Hugo and, by extension, Napoléon III. This code aligns the novel's characters with historical figures and revolutions and highlights their shared shortcomings. In this way, Madame Bovary ridicules the degradation produced by repetition as well as the resulting gaps between flowery narratives and their less idyllic realities. During its 1857 trial, the novel's censors failed to notice its most concealed and dangerously democratizing political critique, namely, that the powerful are no greater than the humble. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Additional Information

  • Source:Esprit Createur. 2023/09, Vol. 63, Issue 3, p52
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:History
  • Publication Date:2023
  • ISSN:00140767
  • DOI:10.1353/esp.2023.a906707
  • Accession Number:172876878
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