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Madame Bovary, Chapter 7 summary

Chapter 7 of 35 · Part 1 · 9 min to read the chapter

In Chapter 7, Emma finds married life disappointing, fails to stir the passion she expects, and retreats into solitary walks and thoughts of another husband. Charles remains pleased with their marriage, while an invitation from the Marquis d’Andervilliers interrupts her routine and brings the couple to Vaubyessard.

What happens

  1. Emma imagines romantic travel and grows frustrated with Charles’s ordinary conversation, limited accomplishments, and belief that she is happy.
  2. Her household skills and artistic activities increase Charles’s pride, while his mother resents Emma’s spending and his devotion.
  3. Emma tries poetry and music to make herself love Charles, but feels no change and sees his affection as routine.
  4. Walking with Djali near Banneville, Emma questions her marriage and imagines a different husband and a livelier existence.
  5. The Marquis d’Andervilliers invites the couple to Vaubyessard after Charles treats him and he meets Emma.
  6. Charles and Emma travel there on Wednesday afternoon and arrive as the park lamps are lit.

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In this chapter

EmmaCharles

What to notice

Emma’s private dissatisfaction becomes a direct question about her marriage. She imagines other possible husbands rather than finding comfort in Charles’s affection.

Quick check

What prompts the Marquis to request cuttings from Charles?

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