Flaubert’s Parrot by Julian Barnes. Summary of the book.

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Flaubert’s Parrot by Julian Barnes

Flaubert’s Parrot is a book written by Julian Barnes and published in 1984. It tells the story of Geoffrey Braithwaite, a retired doctor and amateur detective, who is on a quest to discover the whereabouts of a stuffed parrot that once belonged to the 19th-century French author, Gustave Flaubert. Along the way, Braithwaite discovers new things about Flaubert’s life and work, and meets a variety of interesting characters. The book is a meditation on memory, identity, and the power of literature.

Plot Summary

The book follows Geoffrey Braithwaite, a retired doctor from England. He is fascinated by the life and work of the 19th-century French author, Gustave Flaubert. Braithwaite embarks on a quest to find out the whereabouts of a stuffed parrot that once belonged to Flaubert. He visits various places in France, including the Museum of Natural History in Rouen, where he discovers that the parrot was sold to a private collector in 1911. He also uncovers a variety of other facts about Flaubert’s life and work, and meets interesting characters along the way.

Throughout his investigation, Braithwaite reflects deeply on the nature of memory, identity, and the power of literature. He also contemplates his own life and his relationship with his ex-wife. In the end, he discovers that the parrot is in the possession of an elderly woman in France, but decides to leave it there, satisfied with the knowledge that he has gained about Flaubert.

Main Teachings

The main teaching of Flaubert’s Parrot is that memory and identity are not fixed; they are constantly evolving and changing. It also teaches us that literature has the power to inspire and move us in profound ways.

Interesting Facts

  • Flaubert’s Parrot was the first book written by Julian Barnes.
  • It won the 1984 Prix Médicis and was shortlisted for the Booker Prize.
  • The novel has been adapted into a film, starring Jeremy Irons, that was released in 1985.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Flaubert’s Parrot about?

Flaubert’s Parrot is a book written by Julian Barnes about a man on a quest to discover the whereabouts of a stuffed parrot that once belonged to the 19th-century French author, Gustave Flaubert. Along the way, he discovers new things about Flaubert’s life and work, and meets a variety of interesting characters. The book is a meditation on memory, identity, and the power of literature.

Who wrote Flaubert’s Parrot?

Flaubert’s Parrot was written by Julian Barnes and was published in 1984.

What awards did Flaubert’s Parrot win?

Flaubert’s Parrot won the 1984 Prix Médicis and was shortlisted for the Booker Prize.

Has Flaubert’s Parrot been adapted into a film?

Yes, Flaubert’s Parrot has been adapted into a film, starring Jeremy Irons, that was released in 1985.

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