Lecture Notes: Gustave Flaubert and The Temptation of Saint Anthony

Introduction

• Setting: Lecture presented in an informal setting, the "bathtub."
• Focus: Discussion on Gustave Flaubert, pronounced correctly as "Gustavi Flaubert."
• Tone: Informal, humorous, speaker often references a parakeet, adding to the casual vibe.

Gustave Flaubert

• Mispronunciation: Commonly mispronounced as "Gustav Flo Bear."
• Personal Opinion: Considered the speaker's favorite writer.
• Life:
  • Suffered from epilepsy and other health issues.
  • Had a complex relationship with his mother.
  • His father was a prominent doctor in Rouen.
  • Lived a life of relative seclusion and indulgence.

The Temptation of Saint Anthony

• Background:
  • Written early in Flaubert's career, before Madame Bovary.
  • Initially received poor feedback from friends.
  • Went through multiple rewrites throughout his life.
  • Introduction by Kitty Mrosovsky in the Penguin edition.
• Themes:
  • Described as a "drama in prose."
  • Contains mystical and nihilistic elements.
  • Filled with rich, imaginative imagery.
• Influences and Style:
  • Influenced by the decadence and aesthetics of writers like Oscar Wilde and J.K. Huysmans.
  • Influences from De Sade.
  • Known for lush, beautifully crafted prose.

Key Points from the Book

• Plot Description:
  • Anthony, a monk, is tempted by various religious monsters and temptations.
  • The narrative style is almost like a stage play.
  • Characters include the Queen of Sheba and a devil-like figure named Hilarion.
  • Flaubert uses the story to critique religion, depicting gods as monstrous and demanding human sacrifice.
• Narrative Style:
  • Focus on immersive, rather than didactic storytelling.
  • Describes bizarre creatures and allegorical parades.

Significant Quotes and Ideas

• Flaubert's View:
  • "I'm a Mystic at bottom and I believe in nothing."
  • Desires to create books that stand by their "internal force of style."
• Example Passages:
  • Idols of all nations pass by Anthony, described with vivid, grotesque imagery.
  • Critiques worship and religious practices.

Other Works and Influence

• Other Books:
  • Madame Bovary and Salammbô are highlighted as major works.
• Legacy:
  • Flaubert's works influenced later writers and added to the landscape of 19th-century literature.
• Letters:
  • Flaubert's letters provide further insight into his mindset and artistic philosophy.

Final Thoughts

• The Temptation of Saint Anthony is described as a "Fantasia of horrific beauty."
• Recommended for those interested in exploring Flaubert's more obscure works.
• Encouragement to read his letters for a deeper understanding of his work and influence.