How did Gustave Flaubert’s death affect Guy de Maupassant?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

Gustave Flaubert’s sudden and unexpected death in 1880 was a "grievous blow" to Guy de Maupassant.1

The relationship between the two men was profound; Flaubert served not only as a literary mentor who guided Maupassant’s development as a writer but also as a "foster father" figure to him. Flaubert famously described Maupassant as his disciple, stating, "He’s my disciple and I love him like a son". Given this deep personal and professional bond, Flaubert's passing represented a significant loss in Maupassant's life.1