The Necklace Paper

6 Pages 1508 Words

An Analysis of Idea in “The Necklace”

Literary idea, as stated by Hugh H. Paschal, is “an author’s central meaning or theme of a literary work” (358). Literary idea is essential in helping us bridge the gap between simply viewing literature as mere entertainment and actually absorbing what we can gain from a specific piece of fiction. In fact, an effective conveyance of the idea embodied within certain works has the potential to ultimately change the way we think about life. By way of illustration, in the short story “The Necklace” Guy de Maupassant effectively employs idea to point out that the possession of material properties does not automatically merit true happiness. To better illustrate this theme, Maupassant first presents us with a character who views herself as having potential to live a life of great social importance. However, no matter how hard she tries, she can never actually break out of her shell. The second device utilized to communicate the author’s idea is evident in a conversation between Mathilde and her husband in which Mathilde’s importance of adornment is discussed. Lastly, the author develops an episode at the conclusion of the story that includes a confrontation between Mathilde and her friend from whom she borrowed the jewel. A careful analysis of these events in “The Necklace” will reveal that Maupassant convincingly presents his idea that material possessions are not the root of happiness.
The first major consideration in Maupassant’s conveyance of idea in “The Necklace” is, in fact, the introduction of the protagonist, Mathilde Loisel. In literature, it
is not uncommon for an author to sometimes utilize specific character development to define or assist in supporting his idea. Taking a look now at the work itself, Mathilde, a lower class housewife who often wishes she was in the limelight of social prominence, is introduced to the audience. Maupassant describes Mathilde�...