Guy De Maupassant The Necklace In French
Guy De Maupassant, one of the most celebrated French writers of the 19th century, is known for his short stories and novels that reflect the society and culture of his time. One of his most famous short stories is "The Necklace" ("La Parure" in French), which was first published in 1884.
The Plot
The story revolves around a middle-class woman named Mathilde Loisel, who dreams of a luxurious life filled with wealth and glamour. However, she is married to a clerk and lives a modest life. One day, her husband brings home an invitation to a fancy ball, and Mathilde is overjoyed at the prospect of attending the event.
However, she realizes that she doesn't have any suitable dress or jewelry to wear to the ball. In desperation, she borrows a beautiful diamond necklace from her wealthy friend Madame Forestier. Mathilde is the belle of the ball, but disaster strikes when she loses the necklace on her way home.
Mathilde and her husband spend years paying off the debt they incur to replace the necklace, only to find out in the end that the original necklace was a fake.
The Themes
"The Necklace" is a story that explores several themes, including the dangers of materialism, the consequences of vanity, and the power of perception. Mathilde's obsession with material possessions leads to her downfall, and her pride ultimately blinds her to the truth of the necklace.
The story also highlights the societal expectations placed on women during the 19th century. Mathilde's desire to attend the ball and her obsession with her appearance reflect the pressure put on women to conform to societal standards of beauty and elegance.
The Writing Style
Guy De Maupassant's writing style is characterized by his realistic and straightforward approach to storytelling. He often used irony and satire to criticize the flaws and vices of society, as seen in "The Necklace."
His writing is also known for its vivid descriptions and attention to detail, which bring his characters and settings to life. De Maupassant's use of third-person narration allows the reader to see the story from a detached point of view, adding to the overall impact of the story.
The Legacy
"The Necklace" has become one of Guy De Maupassant's most famous works and is still widely read and studied today. It has been adapted into numerous plays, films, and television shows, and has influenced countless writers and artists.
The story's enduring popularity is a testament to De Maupassant's skill as a writer and his ability to capture the complexities of human nature and society. "The Necklace" remains a timeless work of literature that continues to resonate with readers around the world.
