A Simple Heart

Flaubert's A Simple Heart is not your typical fairy tale story, yet on the other hand its also not your typical tragedy. It is a tale of a servent girl, Felicite, who lives a mediocre life. She ends up working for Madame Aubaine and becomes a part of their family. Felicite cares for the children as her own, and even saves their lives from a bull. She gives entirely to others, and although many take advantage of her she is unaffected. She is the epitome of a selfless character, and Flaubert shows how true altruism is the reward in itself. Whatever comes her way she is able to deal with it. A parrot is given to the family and it immediately becomes one of Felicites best friends. She relates the bird to the holy ghost and even sees it on her death bead. Overall, her life is seemingly pointless but Flaubert reveals how a true selfless heart can go a long way in life.