Equally important to notice is the ‘implications’ of her attitude after ten years: she is ‘still young, still beautiful, still attractive’ (de Maupassant, 19). Moreover, she admits the necklace being an imitation with notable ease which indicates that Madame is not ashamed of this act. De Maupassant gives a description of her feelings in the end as ‘deeply moved’ that shows her sincerity (20). Of course, the initial motive for buying a fake diamond necklace was similar to Mathilda’s – to get beauty and attention, but Madame Forestier’s image allows to state that her intention was not to imitate a higher social class. On the contrary, in the story’s ending, it is exposed that Madame Forestier has resorted to dishonesty regarding her possessions. This strong contrast indicates the author’s disapproval of her behavior and states the moral: vain deception is improper and socially unacceptable. Two situations of Matilda being around people depict, that earlier multiple men would wish to talk to her, but then even a former friend does not recognize her. During the ball ‘All the men were watching her, asking her name, trying to get introduced’ while ten years later Madame Forestier replies to her ‘You must be mistaken!’ (de Maupassant 15-19). Matilda’s greed and vanity is punished with deprivation her of both her wealth and recognition. Thus, heroine strives to obtain a luxurious look deceitfully with the intention to lie and brag about her social status. Irawan characterized her as ‘full of envious resentment’, having ‘materialistic obsession’ and ‘unappreciative and selfish tendencies’ (6).
Condemned by de Maupassant, Mathilda, the protagonist, represents a hypocritical origin of deception for which she receives the punishment of living in poverty.
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