Certainly! Below is the
solution to the multiple-choice comprehension questions based on *The Necklace* by Guy de Maupassant, along with
explanations for each answer.
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The Necklace – Comprehension Questions (p. 64)
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1. The narrator suggests that Mathilde’s problem is that she —
Answer: b. was born into the wrong social class
✔ Explanation:
Mathilde Loisel is described as a woman who dreams of luxury and high society but lives in modest circumstances. She feels discontented because she believes she was born into a lower social class than she deserves. Her dissatisfaction stems from her belief that she should be living a life of elegance and refinement, not one of middle-class simplicity. This is evident when she laments her "poor apartment" and "plain clothes."
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2. Mathilde envies the social class and wealth of others because —
Answer: b. she feels that she deserves a more beautiful life
✔ Explanation:
Mathilde doesn't envy wealth just for its own sake; she believes she is inherently worthy of a grander existence. Her envy comes from a deep sense of entitlement—she thinks she should have been born into nobility or wealth. This inner conviction drives her desire to appear wealthy and elegant, even if it's only for a night at the ball.
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3. Mathilde borrows a necklace from Mme. Forestier because —
Answer: a. she does not have fine jewelry
✔ Explanation:
Mathilde has no expensive jewelry to wear to the ball, which makes her feel embarrassed and inadequate. When she sees Mme. Forestier’s diamonds, she asks to borrow them so she can look glamorous and fit in with the upper class at the event. The story emphasizes her lack of jewels and how this affects her self-image.
> Note: Option d is tempting, but the text shows Mme. Forestier offers the necklace freely; Mathilde doesn’t refuse it out of guilt—she simply wants it.
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4. Why don’t the Loisels tell Mme. Forestier that the necklace has been lost?
Answer: d. They are ashamed to admit their carelessness
✔ Explanation:
After losing the necklace, the Loisels choose not to confess because they fear the social consequences. They believe Mme. Forestier will think poorly of them, especially since they were careless. Their pride prevents them from admitting the truth, so they decide to replace the necklace themselves rather than face humiliation.
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5. In order to get the money to replace the necklace, the Loisels —
Answer: c. borrow some, reduce their standard of living, and work hard
✔ Explanation:
To repay the debt for the replacement necklace, the Loisels make drastic changes:
- They take out loans.
- They move to a cheaper apartment.
- They live frugally, doing household chores themselves.
- Both husband and wife work long hours to earn money.
This sacrifice lasts for ten years, showing how deeply the loss impacts their lives.
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✔ Final Answers:
1.
b
2.
b
3.
a
4.
d
5.
c
Let me know if you'd like a summary of the story or analysis of themes (like pride, illusion vs. reality, or fate)!
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of the necklace worksheet.
