Flaubert's Trois Contes are often said to be an ideal way of introducing readers to his heavier-duty wotk. That's definitely how I feel about them. The range here is quite something: gentle naturalism in 'A Simple Heart,' Gothic myth in 'The Legend of St Julian,' and historicism in 'Herodias'. It is tempting and inevitable to see them as miniatures of Madame Bovary and A Sentimental Education, The Temptation of Saint Anthony, and Salammbo.
I enjoyed them all. The quality of Krailsheimer's translation helped, as did his introduction. I found I didn't need the notes but they are there for those who do. I don't have a favourite; all three have their different merits. I suppose what held me was Flaubert's profound empathy for his fellow human beings, with their weaknesses and their saving graces. I found it fascinating how the forerunner of Christ, Iaokanann, is kept 'offstage' while his fate is determined.
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