Bouvard and Pécuchet - by Gustave Flaubert

Flaubert’s satirical novel follows two clerks, Bouvard and Pécuchet, as they pursue knowledge in various fields, only to meet repeated failure. The book critiques the pretensions of 19th-century intellectualism and explores themes of absurdity and disillusionment, showcasing Flaubert’s sharp wit and literary mastery.