A Simple Heart
by Gustave Flaubert

A Simple Heart: Genre 1 key example

Genre
Explanation and Analysis:

“A Simple Heart” is a short story that has some romantic elements and some realist elements. Romantic literature was popular in the 18th and 19th centuries and focused more on telling engaging and entertaining stories than on depicting life as it really is. Whimsical writing about nature and adventure stories about brave heroes conquering their foes are both examples of romantic literature. The romantic elements in “A Simple Heart” include the fact that, despite the endless tragedies she suffers, Félicité always remains pure-hearted and loving. The ending also strays into a more mystical realm as Félicité dies and sees “a huge parrot hovering above her head as the heavens parted to receive her.”