Vocabulary
What does the term "impel" most closely mean in the story?
To drive or push someone to do something
What was Mathilde's first decision made in pride?
She was unhappy with her life and felt as though she deserved more. This started everything, but it may be argued that her rebuff of the invitation to the ball might be the start.
How does Mathilde Loisel's character initially reveal her dissatisfaction with her life?
She resents her modest lifestyle and dreams of luxury.
What does the contrast between the real and fake necklace symbolize?
The deceptive nature of appearances.
How does the author's choice of words describe Mathilde's physical transformation?
Using harsh and direct descriptions to show the trials she faced.
The word "covet" in the story's context best represents...?
To want something very much, especially something that belongs to someone else.
What incident serves as the main catalyst for the story's conflict?
Mathilde's husband bringing home the invitation to the ball at the Minster of Education's residence.
What does Mathilde's reaction to the party invitation reveal about her character?
Her deep insecurity stemming from her unhappiness in her life.
How does the author's description of time passing contribute to the story's impact?
By emphasizing the relentless burden of debt.
What does the word "homage" in the story's context most likely relate to?
Special honor, respect, or admiration shown publicly.
When a character is described as "appalled”, they are experiencing...?
Extreme shock, horror, or disgust.
Mahtilde is described as having been stupefied by the party invitation. What does this suggest about her? What does her immediate reaction afterwards suggest about her?
She is bewildered and shocked then she becomes irritated because she feels as though she will not fit in since she does not have wealthy-type clothing.
How does the author's description of Mathilde at the ball reveal her character?
She becomes intoxicated with pleasure and success, holding onto it to try and stay away from who and what she really is.
How does the story's conclusion contribute to its theme?
It emphasizes the futility of appearances and how pride may lead to one's own downfall.
How does dialogue reveal character development in the story?
The conversations show Mathilde's transformation from proud to humble.
What does the term "caste" most closely mean in the story?
A social class or grou that people belong to, often with strict rules.
How does the loss of the necklace propel the plot forward?
It leads to the transformation of the Loisel's lives as they end up living through a decade of hardship to replace it.
What does Mathilde's changed appearance symbolize after her 10 years of hard labor?
It represents the cost of her pride.
What literary device is exemplified in the contrast between Mathilde at the ball and her later life?
Irony.
"Usurers" in the story's historical context refers to...?
People who lend money at very high interest rates.
What is the term for a small, cramped attic room?
A garrett.
What impact does the revelation about the necklace's true value have on the story's meaning?
It emphasizes the tragedy of unnecessary sacrifice. It also serves as irony since they had to live through 10 years of appalling circumstances to pay for the replacement necklace. It also emphasizes how the situation may have been avoided if Mathilde would not have allowed her pride to control her impulses.
How does the contrast between Mathilde's initial and final meetings with Madame Forestier reveal character development?
Dramatic role reversal; she started off prideful, greedy, and envious, and yet she ended understanding value of money better but still somewhat prideful (she blamed her friend for her own situation).
What is the significance of Madame Forestier's role in the story?
She represents the lifestyle Madame Loisel desires.
How does the author's word choice in describing Mathilde's home contribute to the tone?
Phrases such as "dirty walls" and "worn-out chairs" emphasize the dissatisfaction with her life at the beginning.