Question

In "The Necklace," why is it important to Mathilde that she be viewed as wealthy when she isn't?   A. In her society, only wealthy people are able to find true love.   B. In her society, wealth is a sign of one's importance and social standing.   C. In her society, wealth is a sign of superior intelligence, which Mathilde clearly wants.   D. In her society, only wealthy people are considered physically beautiful.

Answer 1

B. In her society, wealth is a sign of one's importance and social standing.
D. In her society, only wealthy people are considered physically beautiful.

Both answers B and D describe Mathilde's desires. She wants the necklace because it will make her appear beautiful and superior to the "shabby" existence she has been forced to live. She perceives that only the wealthy are beautiful, and this is a result of the way that wealthy people are portrayed.

She also believes herself to be worthy of the high social standing that shows how important she really is. She has not lived this type of lifestyle, having married someone she believes is beneath her standing. The opportunity to wear the necklace and attend the party will elevate her social standing and make her beautiful.