Gustave Flaubert, born on December 12, 1821, in Rouen, France, is heralded as one of the leading exponents of literary realism in his country. His influence extends deeply into the 19th-century literary landscape, famously known for his debut novel, 'Madame Bovary' (1857), a seminal work that elicited both scandal and acclaim for its unflinching depiction of bourgeois society and the character of Emma Bovary. A meticulous craftsman, Flaubert was notorious for his devotion to style, seeking the precise word or 'le mot juste,' which became a hallmark of his writing. His pursuit of perfection in prose led to each of his works being painstakingly crafted. After 'Madame Bovary', he continued to explore the boundaries of literary norms with books like 'Salammbo' (1862), a historical novel set in ancient Carthage, and 'Sentimental Education' (1869), a story of disillusionment in the Parisian society of the 1840s. His collection, 'The Collected Works of Gustave Flaubert', encapsulates his extensive contributions to literature, which include not only his novels but also travel writings, correspondence, and plays. Flaubert's impact on literature is indelible, with his dedication to the craft shaping the techniques of many writers after him. He passed away on May 8, 1880, leaving a legacy characterized by his devotion to realism and the art of prose.