Herodias by Gustave Flaubert (1877)
The novel revolves around the life of a young woman who becomes embroiled in a complex web of relationships and power struggles within her aristocratic family. She is portrayed as a beautiful but shallow and manipulative individual, using her charm to influence those around her and further her own interests. Throughout the narrative, themes of morality, class, and the corrupting influence of wealth are explored, highlighting the societal pressures that shape the characters' actions and decisions. The story is characterized by its use of symbolism and philosophical undertones, adding depth and complexity to the narrative.
By Gustave Flaubert · First published 1877 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Tragedy, Drama · 3 chapters · 15,581 words
First lines
In the eastern side of the Dead Sea rose the citadel of Machaerus. It was built upon a conical peak of basalt, and was surrounded by four deep valleys, one on each side, another in front, and the fourth in the rear. At the base of the citadel, crowding against one another, a group of houses stood within the circle of a wall, whose outlines undulated with the unevenness of the soil. A zigzag road, cutting through the rocks, joined the city to the fortress, the walls of which were about one hundred and twenty cubits high, having numerous angles and ornamental towers that stood out like jewels in this crown of stone overhanging an abyss.
What this Textopian page supports
Herodias is listed on Textopian as a novel by Gustave Flaubert, dated 1877 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novel
- Author: Gustave Flaubert
- Date: 1877 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Historical Fiction, Tragedy, Drama, Religious Fiction, Psychological Fiction
- Length: 15,581 words
- Structure: 3 chapters, 308 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Herodias by Gustave Flaubert
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Herodias?
- How does this novel by Gustave Flaubert fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Historical Fiction first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Historical Fiction — The narrative is set in a historical context, focusing on the events surrounding the death of John the Baptist.
- Tragedy — The story involves tragic elements, including betrayal and the downfall of characters.
- Drama — The plot is driven by intense emotional and moral conflicts among the characters.
- Religious Fiction — The story incorporates religious themes and figures, particularly from the Christian tradition.
Tags
French Literature · Realism · Psychological Fiction · Philosophical Themes · Existential Crisis · Morality · Social Commentary · Family Dynamics · Power Struggles · Manipulation · Deception · Moral Ambiguity