Over Strand and Field: A Record of Travel through Brittany

In 'Over Strand and Field: A Record of Travel through Brittany,' Gustave Flaubert offers not just a travelogue but a textured narrative, teeming with acute observations and evocative descriptions. Captured within these pages is a Brittany that transcends time, portrayed through its rugged landscapes, enchanting folklore, and the steadfast character of its people. Flaubert writes with a lyrical style that evokes the Romantic tradition while anticipating the descriptive prowess characteristic of literary naturalism. His detailed prose and incisive commentary invoke a vivid sense of place, marking this work as an indispensable reference for both literary scholars and enthusiasts of cultural travel memoirs.
Gustave Flaubert, known for his exacting style and the nuanced psychological depth of his characters, brings his literary acumen to a different form in this travel epic. The backdrop to this journey is a Brittany steeped in history and tradition—a canvas that likely appealed to Flaubert's sensibilities. The book may well stem from his own introspective quest, a reprieve from the familiar, a means to explore and understand the diverse fabric of human experience seen through the microcosm of Breton life and scenery.
For those charmed by the allure of France and the entwined threads of its regional cultures, 'Over Strand and Field' stands as a testament to Flaubert's expansive curiosity. It is recommended to the discerning reader, eager to embark on a literary voyage captained by one of the nineteenth century's most meticulous observers. This travel record will enrich not only the Francophile's library but also that of any reader in pursuit of a profound and eloquently crafted exploration of people and place.

Gustave Flaubert (1821-1880) was a French novelist renowned for his scrupulous devotion to his art and style, often considered the leading exponent of literary realism in his country. Born in Rouen, France, to a family of surgeons, Flaubert found his passion in literature rather than medicine. Flaubert's masterpiece, 'Madame Bovary' (1857), reflects his meticulous approach to writing, with every word chosen for its precise effect, showcasing his disdain for bourgeois society, a theme prevalent in much of his work. In addition to his more widely known novels, his travel literature, such as 'Over Strand and Field: A Record of Travel through Brittany', reveals Flaubert's keen observational skills and deep appreciation for the nuances of various landscapes and cultures. His quest for perfection in literary form, character depth, and authenticity was matched by a relentless pursuit of the le mot juste ('the exact word'). Notable works such as 'Salammbo' (1862) and 'Sentimental Education' (1869) further reflect his diverse narrative range and his critical examination of society. Flaubert's influence extended beyond his death, impacting literary greats such as Émile Zola and Marcel Proust. His literary realism and unyielding pursuit of stylistic perfection have cemented his reputation as one of the giants of 19th-century literature.