Bouvard and Pécuchet with The Dictionary of Received Ideas : Book Review

"Bouvard and Pécuchet with The Dictionary of Received Ideas" is a satirical novel penned by Gustave Flaubert. This literary work offers a humorous exploration of the follies and absurdities of human knowledge and society. The narrative centers around the lives of two middle-aged copyists, Bouvard and Pécuchet, who decide to abandon their mundane jobs and embark on a quest for knowledge in various fields. However, their pursuits often result in failure and disillusionment, serving as a stark reminder of the limitations of human understanding.

Flaubert's novel satirizes the intellectual and cultural trends prevalent during his time, mocking the relentless pursuit of knowledge without practical application. Bouvard and Pécuchet's comical attempts to master diverse subjects, ranging from agriculture to literature, almost always end in disaster, exposing the futility of their efforts and highlighting their hapless incompetence. Through this portrayal, Flaubert aims to emphasize the absurdity of human pretensions.

Throughout the course of the story, Flaubert incorporates "The Dictionary of Received Ideas," a collection of absurd clichés and commonplace notions that permeate society. This inclusion serves to further underscore Flaubert's critique of intellectual laziness and conformity. It showcases how people rely on preconceived notions rather than engaging in independent thought. The Dictionary acts as a scathing commentary on the mindless acceptance of popular ideas that lack substance or critical analysis.

Flaubert's writing style is characterized by his meticulous attention to detail, as well as his skilled use of irony and satire. He skillfully exposes the flaws and contradictions intrinsic to human knowledge and society. Though the novel may appear fragmented and disjointed at times, this deliberate structure reflects Flaubert's desire to portray a confused and chaotic world. The absurdity and failures experienced by Bouvard and Pécuchet ultimately deliver a poignant commentary on human understanding and the pursuit of knowledge itself.

In conclusion, "Bouvard and Pécuchet with The Dictionary of Received Ideas" is a thought-provoking and humor-filled novel that illuminates the inadequacies and absurdities of human knowledge. Flaubert's sharp wit and masterful use of irony make this literary work a delightful read, shedding light on the dangers of intellectual arrogance and the stagnant nature of society.

What are readers saying?

The reception of Gustave Flaubert's "Bouvard and Pécuchet with The Dictionary of Received Ideas" has been varied, with readers expressing diverse opinions on its unique style and satirical content.

Some reviewers have praised Flaubert's writing style, commending his sharp wit and skillful storytelling. They find the satire in the book to be clever and appreciate how the author provides social commentary through humor. These readers are particularly drawn to the complexity and relatability of the characters, Bouvard and Pécuchet.

However, there are others who find the book tedious and lacking clear direction. Some readers struggle with Flaubert's satirical approach, making it difficult for them to engage with the story. Additionally, they feel that the characters are too exaggerated and unlikable, which hinders their enjoyment of the novel.

Opinions on the humor in "Bouvard and Pécuchet with The Dictionary of Received Ideas" are also mixed. While some reviewers find it hilarious and enjoy the ironic observations and absurd situations, others find the humor repetitive and predictable, leading to a lackluster reading experience.

The pacing of the book also sparks controversy among reviewers. Some praise Flaubert's attention to detail and thorough exploration of various topics. They find the extensive research and intellectual discussions intriguing. On the other hand, some feel that the book is overly dense and slow-paced, leading to a lack of engagement.

BouvardandPécuchet DictionaryofReceivedIdeas ClassicLiterature