The Necklace By Guy De Maupassant Text
Introduction
The Necklace is a captivating short story written by Guy De Maupassant in the late 19th century. The story revolves around a young, beautiful woman named Mathilde Loisel who is unhappy with her life and dreams of a more luxurious lifestyle. The story is an excellent example of the author's writing style and his ability to capture the reader's attention until the very end.
Plot Summary
The story begins with Mathilde being invited to a fancy ball. She is unhappy with her simple life and borrows an expensive necklace from her wealthy friend to wear to the ball. At the ball, she is the center of attention and has a wonderful time. However, on returning home, she realizes that she has lost the necklace. In an attempt to replace it, Mathilde and her husband work for ten years to repay the debt. When they finally manage to repay the debt, they discover that the original necklace was a fake, and their struggles have been for nothing.
Characters
The story has four main characters: Mathilde Loisel, her husband, Monsieur Loisel, and Madame Forestier. Mathilde is a beautiful, charming, and ambitious woman who is unhappy with her simple life. Monsieur Loisel is a kind, hardworking man who loves his wife but cannot provide her with the luxurious lifestyle she desires. Madame Forestier is a wealthy friend of Mathilde who lends her the necklace for the ball.
Themes
The Necklace explores several themes such as wealth, social status, and appearance. Mathilde's desire for wealth and social status leads her to borrow the necklace, which ultimately leads to her downfall. The story also highlights how appearances can be deceptive, as the necklace that Mathilde borrows turns out to be a fake. The theme of hard work and dedication is also evident in the story, as Mathilde and her husband work for ten years to repay the debt.
Analysis
The Necklace is a brilliantly crafted story that has stood the test of time. The author's vivid descriptions and attention to detail make the story come to life. The character of Mathilde is well-developed, and the reader can sympathize with her desire for a better life. The twist at the end of the story is unexpected yet fitting and leaves a lasting impression on the reader.
Conclusion
The Necklace is a timeless classic that continues to captivate readers to this day. The story's themes and characters are relatable and resonate with readers of all ages. The author's writing style is unique and engaging, and the story is a testament to his skill as a writer. The Necklace is a must-read for anyone who enjoys short stories and is a great example of French literature.
