In the 1934 French film Madame Bovary, directed by Jean Renoir, the character Félicité does not actually appear. That’s right—despite some assumptions, Félicité isn’t part of this particular adaptation of Gustave Flaubert’s classic novel. Instead, the story centers entirely on Emma Bovary, a woman driven by romantic longing and a deep dissatisfaction with the constraints of her provincial life. As the narrative unfolds, we see how Emma’s pursuit of passion and escape ultimately leads to tragedy—a theme that Renoir captures with striking emotional depth.

Now, while Félicité may not be in Madame Bovary, it’s worth noting that the name does belong to another memorable figure in Flaubert’s work: the humble and devoted servant from “A Simple Heart.” But when we talk about the 1934 film, it’s Emma who takes center stage, along with key figures like her well-meaning but dull husband Charles, and her lovers Rodolphe and Léon. These characters, shaped by societal pressures and personal desires, form the emotional core of the story. So, if someone mentions Félicité in connection with Madame Bovary, they might be mixing up Flaubert’s different works.

That said, let’s take a moment to consider what kind of person Félicité would be—if she were indeed in this world. Hypothetically speaking, Félicité could be seen as an ISFJ personality type, often referred to as “The Defender.” This type is known for being warm, responsible, and deeply committed to the well-being of others. And honestly, that fits the essence of Félicité perfectly. Even though she doesn’t appear in Madame Bovary, imagining her through this lens helps us appreciate the kind of quiet strength she represents in other stories.

As an ISFJ, Félicité would likely put others first, showing unwavering loyalty and compassion. She wouldn’t seek praise or attention; instead, she’d find fulfillment in supporting those around her, perhaps even tending to Emma with patient care. Her actions would speak louder than words—offering comfort, maintaining order, and staying grounded amid chaos. These are all hallmarks of the ISFJ temperament: dependable, empathetic, and guided by a strong inner sense of duty.

Moreover, Félicité’s nature suggests she might also align with the Enneagram type 2w1—the Helper with a wing of the Reformer. This combination brings together warmth and idealism with a firm moral compass. As a Type 2, Félicité would have a deep need to feel loved and needed, often expressing love through service. Whether it’s preparing meals, offering silent support, or managing household affairs, she’d do so with sincerity and care.

But the 1 wing adds another layer: a desire for integrity and ethical living. It means Félicité wouldn’t just help because it feels good—she’d help because it’s right. She might quietly disapprove of Emma’s reckless choices, not out of judgment, but from a place of concern and principle. This internal balance between compassion and conscience defines the 2w1 beautifully, making Félicité a stabilizing presence, even in a story full of turmoil.

So, while Félicité doesn’t walk the scenes of the 1934 Madame Bovary film, reflecting on her potential role allows us to explore deeper themes of devotion, morality, and emotional resilience. The movie itself remains a powerful portrayal of desire and disillusionment, brought to life through Renoir’s masterful direction and Flaubert’s timeless critique of society. And though Félicité isn’t on screen, her spirit—the quiet, steadfast caregiver—echoes in the spaces between the drama, reminding us of the unsung roles that hold worlds together.

Ultimately, whether we’re discussing personality types or literary analysis, Félicité stands as a symbol of selfless dedication. Even in absence, her imagined presence enriches our understanding of the human condition within stories like Madame Bovary. And that, in itself, is a testament to how profoundly characters like Félicité can influence the way we interpret love, duty, and sacrifice.