Background Of The Story The Necklace
The Necklace is a short story written by Guy de Maupassant in the late 19th century. It is considered one of his most famous works, and has been adapted into various forms of media, such as plays, operas, and films. The story revolves around a woman named Mathilde Loisel, who is dissatisfied with her middle-class lifestyle and longs for wealth and luxury.
The Plot
The story begins with Mathilde Loisel feeling unhappy and unsatisfied with her life. She is married to a clerk, and they live in a small apartment. Mathilde dreams of living a life of luxury and elegance, but she knows that her husband cannot afford it. One day, her husband comes home with an invitation to a fancy ball. Mathilde is excited at the prospect of attending the ball but realizes that she has nothing to wear.
Mathilde's husband suggests that she borrow a necklace from her friend Madame Forestier. Madame Forestier lends Mathilde a beautiful diamond necklace, and Mathilde is the belle of the ball. She enjoys the attention and the admiration of the other guests, but her happiness is short-lived.
After the ball, Mathilde realizes that she has lost the necklace. She and her husband search for it but cannot find it. They decide to replace the necklace, and they take out loans and borrow money from friends to pay for it. They buy a new necklace and give it to Madame Forestier without telling her that it is a replacement.
Years later, Mathilde meets Madame Forestier and confesses that she lost the necklace and replaced it. Madame Forestier tells Mathilde that the necklace was not real diamonds, but rather imitation. Mathilde and her husband spent years paying off the debt for a necklace that was not worth much money.
The Themes
The Necklace explores several themes, such as the dangers of materialism, the importance of honesty, and the consequences of pride and vanity. Mathilde's desire for material possessions leads her to borrow a necklace that she cannot afford to lose. Her dishonesty and pride prevent her from telling Madame Forestier the truth about the lost necklace. The consequences of her actions lead to years of debt and hardship.
The Author
Guy de Maupassant was a French writer who lived from 1850 to 1893. He was known for his realistic and naturalistic writing style, which depicted the lives of ordinary people. Maupassant's works often explored themes such as love, desire, and the human condition. He was a prolific writer, and his other famous works include Bel Ami and Boule de Suif.
The Legacy
The Necklace is considered a classic work of French literature and has been analyzed and studied by scholars and students alike. The story's themes and message are still relevant today, and it continues to be adapted into various forms of media. The story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of materialism and the importance of honesty and humility.
Conclusion
The Necklace is a timeless story that explores the human condition and the consequences of pride and vanity. Mathilde Loisel's desire for material possessions leads to her downfall, and her dishonesty and pride prevent her from finding redemption. The story serves as a reminder that honesty and humility are important virtues, and that material possessions are not worth sacrificing one's integrity for.
