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Dive into late 1800s Paris society, where desire for wealth and status leads to unexpected consequences. Explore themes of identity and social hierarchy through a tale of longing and deception.
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The Necklace By Guy de Maupassant
Time and Place • Paris, France • During the late 1800s
Background Info • In late 1800s, society in Paris had a rigid class structure. • Aristocrats were at the top of the social ladder. They had wealth, large estates, and many servants.
Background Info • Below the aristocrats was the middle class. These consisted of merchants, clerks, government workers, and others. • Middle class families generally lived in modest homes or apartments and could afford to hire a servant or two. • They were not starving or poor, however they did have a lot less money and social stature as the aristocrats. • MIDDLE-CLASS WOMEN DID NOT WORK OUTSIDE THE HOME. ONLY MEN WORKED.
Background info • Below the middle class, there was a huge number of peasants and servants who worked for the rich or farmed the land. • People would try to own material goods to make themselves look higher in society than they were. • Both men and women in the lowest class worked hard labor with long hours for the rich.
Connecting to the story • In “The Necklace,” a character wishes she owned something far more costly than she can afford. • Write three reasons why a person might want to have expensive things. Use at least three of these words: obtain, impress, exceed, and identify.
Guy de maupassant • Wrote short stories that are realistic and pessimistic. Often have surprise endings. • “The Necklace” is perhaps his most widely read story. • He was interested in the psychology of his characters.
Mini French Lesson M. = Monsieur = Mr. Mme. = Madame = Mrs. So, a M. would be married to a Mme.