A Simple Soul

"A Simple Soul" by Gustave Flaubert is a novella written during the 19th century, specifically in the mid to late 1800s. This literary work falls into the category of fiction but is characterized as a short story that explores themes of devotion, simplicity, and the quiet struggles of a servant named Félicité. The story portrays the ordinary life of Félicité, who serves as a maid for Madame Aubain, reflecting Flaubert's keen observations on the nature of human relationships and social class. The narrative centers on Félicité, a humble and devoted servant who endures a life filled with personal sacrifices and heartaches. The plot unfolds as Félicité navigates through her life's challenges, including a lost romance, the care of the two children of Madame Aubain, and her bond with a parrot named Loulou, which becomes a symbol of her affection and devotion. As the years pass, Félicité experiences the loss of loved ones and the struggles of her master, Madame Aubain, ultimately leading her to live a life steeped in reverence and devotion to her deceased mistress. The story culminates in a poignant exploration of life, love, and the idea of simple faith as Félicité's life fades away, leaving the reader to contemplate the value of her unwavering spirit amidst the apparent triviality of her existence. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Gustave Flaubert was a French novelist. He has been considered the leading exponent of literary realism in his country and abroad. According to the literary theorist Kornelije Kvas, "in Flaubert, realism strives for formal perfection, so the presentation of reality tends to be neutral, emphasizing the values and importance of style as an objective method of presenting reality". He is known especially for his debut novel Madame Bovary (1857), his Correspondence, and his scrupulous devotion to his style and aesthetics. The celebrated short story writer Guy de Maupassant was a protégé of Flaubert.