Guy de Maupassant ( )

Background Information Grew up with mother after parents’ separation Read Shakespeare and other classic literature Hostile to religion Fought in Franco-Prussian War

1878- Worked for the Ministry of Public Instruction- editor of newspapers while writing novel/short stories Became a well-known and wealthy writer Enjoyed solitude and meditation Grew paranoid from syphilis- placed in asylum after attempting suicide

Literature Considered one of the fathers of the modern short story Delighted in clever plotting Fascinated by psychiatry “The Necklace” published 1884 Known for: ◦ Detailed character studies ◦Brief but moving dramas ◦Plot twists ◦Social commentary

“The Necklace” Identify the following plot elements within the story: (Write a sentence or two for each) ◦Initial situation ◦Conflict ◦Complication ◦Climax ◦Suspense ◦Denouement ◦Conclusion

What are possible themes of the story?

How does Maupassant characterize Mathilde and Loisel? Think about their thoughts, actions, and traits, and come to a conclusion about each as a character.

Where are examples of irony in the story? Why might Maupassant use irony in these ways?