FREE ESSAY ON THE NECKLACE

THE NECKLACE

Guy De Maupassant's short story "The Necklace" tells of a woman's intense desire of
becoming associated with the upper class and how it ultimately brings about her downfall
into poverty. The protagonist, Mathilde Loisel, shows many characteristics that bring
about her downfall. The character elements prove that her selfishness, unwillingness to
accept her social role, and excessive pride lead her into a life far from her dreams. The
theme of the story is that through the woman's downfall to poverty, she makes the
realization to appreciate what she has.
Throughout the story of "The Necklace" Mathilde Loisel's discontent with her average life
is evident. She proves to be obsessed with having a wealthy lifestyle by her thoughts and
actions. "She had no dresses, no jewels, nothing. And she loved nothing but that."(161)
She shows no regard for anyone but herself. Although her husband sacrifices his whole
life and earnings for her, Mathilde shows him no appreciation. She is an intensely
jealous woman of anyone who has more money that her. "She had a friend, a former
schoolmate at the convent, who was rich, and whom she did not like to go and see
anymore."(161) Her fascination with the upper class is very evident at the ball. She
refuses to be with her husband, or wear anything that associates her with the lower
class. She is blind to the reality of her own lifestyle. These factors all bring about
her collapse into poverty.
Mathilde is filled with excessive pride that conquers her life. Her pride is so strong
and evident that she cannot face the reality of her middle class stature. After being
invited to the ball, Mathilde feels that she has to live up to her pride by being the
most elegant woman there. Losing the necklace plays a significant role in Mathilde's
pride.