Madame Bovary

A beautiful, romantic, and restless woman who seeks meaning beyond a conventional marriage. Her idealism clashes with provincial life, leading her to seek affection in affairs, fashion, and status symbols. She is driven by a desire for beauty and escape, and ultimately pays a tragic price for these yearnings.

Kind, conscientious, and overly gentle, he is a steady but emotionally passive husband. His routine, lack of assertiveness, and devotion to Emma anchor the marriage, even as Emma grows restless. He dies of grief after learning the truth of her life.

A thoughtful law clerk who shares Emma's interest in art and conversation. He offers companionship and intellectual flirtation, but ultimately leaves for Paris, leaving Emma feeling isolated and abandoned.

A charismatic landowner who pursues Emma with charm and self-interest. His affair with Emma showcases desire without accountability, but he ultimately abandons her when it suits him.

A conniving merchant who uses Emma's desires and debts to gain power over her. His schemes propel the collapse of the Bovarys' finances and social standing.

The narrator frames Emma's story with a critical eye, guiding the audience through her misadventures and societal critique. The narration underscores the tragedy of a woman who cannot reconcile her dreams with reality.