In Guy de Maupassant’s short story ‘The Necklace,’ the protagonist, Madame Loisel, borrows a stunning diamond necklace to wear to a prestigious ball. Initially, she believes the necklace is incredibly expensive, and this perception influences her actions throughout the story.
The necklace is later revealed to be a fake, valued at around 500 francs, rather than the massive fortune she assumed it represented. This twist highlights the themes of vanity, pride, and the dangers of materialism, as Madame Loisel’s desire for wealth and status leads to her downfall. Her experience teaches that appearances can be deceiving and that a focus on superficiality can lead to significant hardship.