Raconter rallentando : ralentis narratifs et lecture empathique chez Flaubert

Abstract

This article examines three techniques employed by Flaubert to decelerate the narrative tempo: adverbial modifiers, pronominal constructions, and anaphoric pronouns. These are analyzed through recurring and significant patterns: the adverb "lentement," associated with non-decomposable verbal processes; the verb "ralentir" used with a reflexive pronoun of ambiguous value; and certain pronominal anaphors that introduce ambiguity in clarifying their reference. These stylistic effects are intertwined with the construction of narrative empathy: variations in tempo, particularly its deceleration, appear conducive to engaging the point of view and enhancing the empathic projection of the reading experience.

Keywords

• Flaubert Gustave
• style
• tempo
• slowness
• focalisation