About the Book

The author of Madame Bovary counted among his correspondents Theophile Gautier, Emile Zola, Guy de Maupassant, ­­­­­and his close friend George Sand (Amantine Dupin). These letters, mostly from the latter half of the great writer's life, offer unique glimpses into Flaubert's emotions, relationships, critical mind, and work. The volume also includes four short works: an early drama, The Dance of Death; an early essay, Rabelais; Preface to the Last Songs (Posthumous Poems) of Louis Bouilhet and Letter to the Municipality of Rouen. The book is edited by Flaubert's niece, Caroline Commanville, who also provides an intimate reminiscence of her celebrated uncle.