Topic > The Series: a Critical Analysis

IndexIntroductionPlot summaryCharacter analysisTheme analysisSymbolismConclusionIntroductionA. Hook: "The Necklace" is a gripping tale written by Guy de Maupassant that delves into themes of wealth, social status and appearances. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essayB. Background Information: The story revolves around the life of Mathilde Loisel, a disgruntled housewife who desires a more luxurious lifestyle and social status.C. Thesis Statement: This essay will analyze the characters, themes, and symbolism of “The Necklace” to understand the message conveyed by the author and how it is relevant to our society today. Plot SummaryMathilde Loisel, a beautiful but dissatisfied housewife, dreams of a luxurious lifestyle and social status higher than her current bourgeois life. She has the chance to attend a prestigious social event but is unhappy to discover that her simple jewelry doesn't match her expectations of elegance. She borrows an expensive necklace from her rich friend to fit in with the crowd; however, he loses it on his way home. Mathilde and her husband, Mr. Loisel, dip into their savings to replace the necklace and begin to suffer financially. Mathilde later discovers that the necklace was a fake and the couple goes through years of difficulty repaying the debts incurred for the purchase of the new necklace. Character AnalysisA. Mathilde LoiselMathilde is the protagonist of the story and her dissatisfaction with her social class and desire for a more luxurious lifestyle drives the conflict of the plot. She is described as a beautiful and charming woman but is dissatisfied with her bourgeois life. Mathilde becomes more materialistic as the story progresses, desiring luxuries such as furs, diamonds, and lavish dresses. However, her character transforms after losing the necklace and having to work hard to repay debts, leading her to realize that happiness is not defined solely by material possessions.B. Monsieur Loisel Monsieur Loisel is Mathilde's supportive husband, who works hard to provide for his family and keep his wife happy. He is depicted as a kind, patient and understanding man, committed to making his wife happy. His love for Mathilde is evident when he agrees to give up his savings and lend them the rest of the money needed to replace the lost necklace. Monsieur Loisel acts as an obstacle to Mathilde's desires, prioritizing the family's well-being over material possessions and social status. Analysis of the topicA. Wealth and Social Status The theme of wealth and social status pervades the story, with the character of Mathilde wanting a luxurious lifestyle and social recognition. The author describes the allure of wealth and the consequences of prioritizing wealth over personal happiness. Mathilde's obsession with material possessions leads to her downfall and difficult living after realizing that the necklace she desperately wanted to keep up appearances was a fake. She realizes that the social status she longed for was not worth the suffering she had to endure for years, ultimately leading to her transformation.B. Appearance vs. Reality The theme of appearance vs. reality is present in the story, with the necklace serving as a symbol of false appearances and materialism. Mathilde is so concerned with appearances that she borrows the necklace to impress her friends, without knowing that it is a fake. This theme highlights characters' actions and decisions based on what they want people to think of them rather than who they really are. Symbolism A. The necklaceThe necklace serves as