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Poetry· France

The Flowers of Evil

by Charles Baudelaire
Aggregate Editorial Score30/100
Published 1857French
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About This Book

Published in 1857, The Flowers of Evil established Charles Baudelaire as one of the defining voices in poetry. Charles Baudelaire's 'The Flowers of Evil' is a seminal work in the Symbolist and Decadent movements, challenging the moral and aesthetic norms of its time. The collection explores themes of beauty, decadence, eroticism, and the passage of time, often juxtaposing the sublime with the grotesque. Its influence on modern poetry is profound, inspiring countless poets and writers with its innovative use of language and exploration of the human condition. Themes of beauty and decay, eroticism, modernity run through the work.

Book Details

AuthorCharles Baudelaire
Published1857
Country of Origin🇫🇷 France
LanguageFrench
Category🌿 Poetry
ISBN9780199535583
Editorial Score30/100
About the Category

🌿 Poetry

Collections of verse spanning lyric, epic, and experimental forms.

Explore all Poetry books →
Country of Origin

🇫🇷 France

This book is part of France's rich literary tradition.

Explore books from France →

Editorial Assessment

Charles Baudelaire published The Flowers of Evil in 1857, and it has since become one of the more widely recognised works of poetry from France. The book's treatment of beauty and decay, eroticism, modernity, time accounts for much of its enduring reputation. The book's place in the literary record rests on its presence across major prize lists and critical surveys. Its aggregate editorial score of 30/100 reflects recognition from 1 independent editorial sources, from international prizes to specialist critical journals. The appeal of The Flowers of Evil lies partly in its refusal to offer easy answers. Its exploration of beauty and decay, eroticism, modernity, time is sustained, textured, and genuinely thought-provoking in ways that stay with readers well after the final page. Within France's literary landscape, Charles Baudelaire occupies a significant position. The Flowers of Evil is both a personal artistic statement and a contribution to a tradition shaped by the country's history and cultural concerns.
About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from 1 independent sources including major literary prizes, critical surveys, and leading publications. Our editorial team reviews and contextualises this data. Rankings reflect critical consensus, not personal opinion or popularity metrics. Learn about our methodology.

Awards & Recognition

Guardian 100 Best Novels
list · global
20020
✍️
About the Author
Charles Baudelaire
France
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Charles Baudelaire is a France author whose work in poetry has earned recognition from readers and critics alike.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Flowers of Evil about?

Charles Baudelaire's 'The Flowers of Evil' is a seminal work in the Symbolist and Decadent movements, challenging the moral and aesthetic norms of its time. The collection explores themes of beauty, decadence, eroticism, and the passage of time, often juxtaposing the sublime with the grotesque. Its influence on modern poetry is profound, inspiring countless poets and writers with its innovative use of language and exploration of the human condition.

Who wrote The Flowers of Evil?

The Flowers of Evil was written by Charles Baudelaire, from France. First published in 1857.

What awards has The Flowers of Evil won?

The Flowers of Evil has received the following recognition: notable critical recognition.

Is The Flowers of Evil worth reading?

The Flowers of Evil is a well-regarded book with an aggregate editorial score of 30/100 on 50 Best Books. It is particularly recommended for readers interested in beauty and decay, eroticism, modernity.

Where can I buy The Flowers of Evil?

You can buy The Flowers of Evil on Amazon. Click the Buy on Amazon button above to find the best edition.

What category is The Flowers of Evil?

The Flowers of Evil is classified as Poetry. Collections of verse spanning lyric, epic, and experimental forms.

What country is The Flowers of Evil from?

The Flowers of Evil originates from France's literary tradition. Explore more books from France on our country page.

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