The Necklace

De Maupassant’s “The Necklace” is a classic example of literary realism, a movement that flourished in France in the 19th century. Literary realism focuses on realistic characters and settings, character development, plausible plot elements, and the depiction of social class.

Mathilde and Loisel are both highly realistic characters, as both have traits relatable to most people. While Mathilde is materialistic and vain, she also wants the most life has to offer her. Loisel, on the other hand, is more content and happier with his position in life. Both characters reflect basic human traits and needs. Mathilde’s character development is likewise familiar, as many readers can relate to the fact that difficult circumstances often provoke the most profound change in a person. The setting of the story is similarly realistic in that it is set in Paris and references specific streets and places in the city. De Maupassant’s use of imagery also shapes the realism of the setting, as readers can easily see themselves in the story and the lives of the characters.

The plot itself, while ultimately tragic and ironic, is highly plausible. Often the goal a person strives for ends up causing more harm than good. This fact is illustrated by Mathilde’s desire to rise in social class, which leads her further down the class structure in the end. Many readers seek the ideal and impossible and know that this pursuit at times leads them backward. Mathilde becomes even more relatable to the reader because of her fall. The idea of social class is so pivotal to the plot that, had it not existed, Mathilde’s struggle would have been avoided. Class structure exists both inside the story and out, so the reader is easily able to sympathize with Mathilde’s situation and her longing to do and be more.