Setting Of The Short Story The Necklace
The Necklace is a short story written by Guy de Maupassant. It was first published in the French newspaper Le Gaulois in 1884. The story is set in Paris, France, during the late 19th century. The setting plays a significant role in the story, as it helps to establish the social and economic status of the characters.
Paris, France
The story takes place in Paris, France, which was a bustling city at the time. The city was known for its high fashion, culture, and art. The city's beauty and glamour are contrasted with the poverty and struggle faced by the main character, Mathilde Loisel.
The Loisel's Apartment
The Loisel family lives in a small, cramped apartment in Paris. The apartment is described as having a shabby and worn-out appearance. The apartment sets the tone for the story, as it highlights the financial struggles that Mathilde Loisel and her husband face.
The Ballroom
The ballroom is where the climax of the story takes place. It is where Mathilde Loisel attends the ball and loses the necklace. The ballroom is described as being grand and luxurious, which contrasts with Mathilde's poverty. The ballroom also symbolizes Mathilde's desire for a better life and her longing to be a part of the upper class.
The Jewelry Store
The jewelry store is where Mathilde and her husband go to purchase a replacement necklace. The store is described as being elegant and expensive, which further highlights the economic divide between Mathilde and the upper class. The store also represents Mathilde's desire for material possessions and her belief that they will bring her happiness.
The Street
The street is where Mathilde and her husband walk after they lose the necklace. The street is described as being dark and quiet, which represents the hopelessness and despair that Mathilde feels. The street also symbolizes the contrast between Mathilde's dream of a better life and the harsh reality of her situation.
The Seine River
The Seine River is where Mathilde's husband goes to search for the lost necklace. The river is described as being cold and unforgiving, which represents the harsh reality of Mathilde's situation. The river also symbolizes the distance between Mathilde's dream of a better life and the reality of her poverty.
In conclusion, the setting of The Necklace helps to establish the socio-economic status of the characters and sets the tone for the story. The contrast between the elegance of Paris and the poverty of Mathilde Loisel highlights the struggle faced by the main character. The setting also symbolizes Mathilde's desire for a better life and the harsh reality of her situation. The Necklace is a timeless story that continues to resonate with readers today.
