What is the main conflict in Sentimental Education by Gustave Flaubert?

The novel's main conflict involves Frederic's inner battle with his own feelings. His obsession with Madame Arnoux is futile and causes him enormous turmoil. The turmoil within him, thus, leads to conflicts with friends and lovers, who he demeans and and hurts in the attempt to ingratiate himself with Madame Arnoux.