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 …showed first 75 words of 309 total…

…showed last 75 words of 309 total…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.