The protagonist, Frederic Moreau, and his beloved, Mme Arnoux, are based on Flaubert's youthful infatuation with an older married woman. Frederic's puppy love for Mme Arnoux is at first steadfast and idealistic, and she remains faithful to her rather frivolous husband. Frederic's love ends in disillusionment, as do the subsequent passions of his life. His youthful ambitions lead to failure and boredom, and his idealistic views of social progress are disappointed by reality.

Gustave Flaubert's "Sentimental Education, or The History of a Young Man" is a classic novel that explores the life and romantic experiences of its protagonist, Frédéric Moreau. This novel is often considered a masterpiece of 19th-century French literature. Set in 19th-century France, the story follows Frédéric Moreau as he embarks on a journey of self-discovery and romantic pursuits. The narrative is marked by themes of love, ambition, disillusionment, and the complexities of human relationships. As Frédéric becomes entangled in various love affairs and navigates the social and political landscape of the time, readers are exposed to a vivid portrayal of French society during this era. Flaubert's storytelling delves into the moral dilemmas and personal conflicts that shape Frédéric's character. "Sentimental Education" is a rich exploration of the emotional and intellectual development of a young man as he grapples with the challenges and opportunities that life presents. Gustave Flaubert's writing invites readers to reflect on the intricacies of human desires, the consequences of ambition, and the ever-changing nature of love and society.