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Madame Bovary, Chapter 8 summary

Chapter 8 of 35 · Part 1 · 14 min to read the chapter

In Chapter 8, Emma and Charles visit Vaubyessard, where luxurious meals, elegant guests, and a waltz with the Viscount draw Emma toward aristocratic life. Back in Tostes, she dismisses Nastasie, hides a cigar case found on the road, and repeatedly recalls the ball even as its details fade.

What happens

  1. The Marquis and Marchioness welcome the Bovarys, and Emma admires the château, its guests, and the elaborate dinner.
  2. Emma discourages Charles from dancing, joins the ball, and watches the wealthy guests with fascination.
  3. Peasants at a window briefly recall her farm upbringing, but the ball overwhelms that memory.
  4. The Viscount guides Emma through a dizzying waltz, and she stays awake afterward to prolong her pleasure.
  5. The Bovarys return home after Charles finds a cigar case; Emma dismisses Nastasie and hides the case.
  6. Emma stores her ball clothes and counts the passing weeks, retaining her longing as particular memories fade.

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In this chapter

EmmaCharles

What to notice

The closing sentence separates Emma’s fading memories from her lasting desire. The visit changes how she experiences her ordinary surroundings.

Quick check

What does Emma do with the cigar case after Charles tries smoking?

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