Which City Is The Setting For The Necklace?

The short story "The Necklace" by Guy de Maupassant is set in Paris, France. Paris was a city known for its opulence and wealth during the 19th century, and this setting plays a crucial role in the story. The protagonist, Mathilde Loisel, is a woman who longs for a life of luxury and finds herself envious of those who have it. This envy ultimately leads to her downfall and misfortunes.
The city of Paris serves as a backdrop for Mathilde's materialistic desires and her strive to fit into high society. The story takes place in the grand boulevards, opera houses, and elegant ballrooms of the city, which Mathilde views as the epitome of luxury and refinement. Her longing to belong in this world is emphasized by her inadequate wardrobe and her uninviting apartment, which contrasts with the rich and beautiful surroundings of the city.
Furthermore, Paris symbolizes the shallow and superficial values of high society, which Mathilde desperately wants to be a part of. The city's social hierarchy is represented by the various parties and events Mathilde attends, where appearances and material possessions hold great significance.
In conclusion, the setting of Paris in "The Necklace" is crucial to the story's theme of materialism and the danger of coveting what one does not have. The city serves as a symbol of the shallow values of high society and the consequences of trying to fit into it.