plot
Where does Mathilde Loisel get invited to go that starts the story’s main problem?
The fancy ball at the Ministry.
Who is the main character?
Mathilde Loisel.
What is one main theme of The Necklace?
The danger of pride and materialism.
What does “dowry” mean?
Money or property a woman brings to her marriage.
What kind of irony is used at the end of the story?
Situational irony.
What does Mathilde borrow from her friend Madame Forestier?
A diamond necklace.
Who is Mathilde’s husband?
Monsieur Loisel.
What does the necklace symbolize?
False appearances / the desire for wealth.
What does “ornament” mean?
A decoration or jewelry item.
Why is the ending ironic?
Mathilde worked 10 years for “nothing” the necklace was fake.
What happens to the necklace after the party?
Mathilde loses it.
How does Monsieur Loisel show he cares for Mathilde?
He gives up his savings so she can buy a dress.
What lesson does Mathilde learn?
Honesty and gratitude are more valuable than looks.
What is a synonym for “poverty”?
Being poor / hardship.
What could Mathilde have done differently to avoid her downfall?
Told Madame Forestier the truth about losing the necklace.
How long does it take the Loisels to pay back the money for the replacement necklace?
Ten years.
Who lends Mathilde the necklace?
Madame Forestier.
How does the story show class difference?
Mathilde dreams of luxury but lives a poor life.
What does “envy” mean?
Jealousy/wanting what someone else has
How is Mathilde’s pride her downfall?
Her vanity made her chase appearances, causing her misery.
What shocking truth does Mathilde learn at the end?
The original necklace was fake.
How does Madame Forestier react at the end?
She is shocked and sorry when she learns Mathilde replaced the fake necklace.
What does the fake necklace reveal about society’s s values?
People often judge worth by appearance, not truth.
What does “distress” mean in the story’s context?
Great pain or suffering caused by loss or worry.
What does the story suggest about honesty?
Being truthful could save you from unnecessary suffering.