Plot: Mathilde is an ungrateful woman, she lives in France with her husband in a run-down apartment.
One day they receive an invitation to a ball and she decides to borrow a necklace from her wealthy friend, Madame Forestier.
She goes to the ball and, for the first time in her life, she feels great. When she comebacks, she realizes the necklace has disappeared.
Her husband and she replace the necklace for a new one that costs 36,000 francs.
After 10 years of debts, she discovers the borrowed necklace was a custom one that cost only 500 francs.
Climax: the moment when they come back from the party and they notice that the necklace wasn't there anymore.
Resolution: when they decide to replace it, despite the big cost they have to assume.
Conflict: <em>external conflict </em>with Madame Loisel and money. She yearns a way of living that she cannot have.
Characterization:
<u>Mathilde Loisel</u> - Protagonist. Mathilde is beautiful but she has not the lifestyle she yearns for, and she feels deeply discontented with life.
<u>Monsieur Loisel</u> - Mathilde’s husband. He is content with the small pleasures of his life but does his best to appease his wife's demands. He really loves her but does not understand her.
<u>Madame Forestier</u> - Mathilde’s wealthy friend. Madame Forestier is kind with Mathilde, but Mathilde is jealous of her friend's wealth. Madame Forestier lends Mathilde the necklace for the luxury party.
Setting: the run-down apartment in which they live. The luxury ball that they assist.
Mood: the mood has an ironic tone.
