FINALPAPERII_ENG300_NBRADY

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Brady 1 Nadia L Brady ENG 300 Prof. Adam Meehan 25 Feb. 2024 7-1 Final Project II The Necklace Unclasped: A Marxist-Feminist Perspective INTRODUCTION A. Through the application of literary theory, readers and analysts can engage in a critical examination of texts by employing various theoretical frameworks and perspectives. This process allows for a deeper exploration of literature's underlying meanings, themes, and contexts. By utilizing concepts and methodologies from different schools of thought, literary theory enables readers to interpret texts in a more nuanced and sophisticated manner. The application of literary theory can uncover hidden complexities, challenge conventional interpretations, and shed light on literary works' socio-cultural, historical, and political dimensions. Ultimately, literary theory facilitates a richer and more comprehensive understanding of literature by encouraging an analytical approach beyond surface-level reading. B. The application of literary theory is essential for enriching our analysis of literary works, offering readers lenses to explore hidden meanings, themes, and social contexts within literature. Through lenses like Feminist and Marxist literary theory, readers can scrutinize texts, uncover deeper layers of significance, and gain profound insights into societal, cultural, and political landscapes that influence literary creations. Authors like A.H. Wallace, known for their in-depth exploration of Guy de Maupassant's life and literature, and scholars like Gayle Greene and Dr.

Brady 2 Wendy Lynne Lee provide valuable insights into the intersections of gender, class struggles, and economic exploitation within literary works. C. "The Necklace" by Guy de Maupassant is a fitting choice for analysis through Feminist and Marxist literary theory due to its thematic elements that resonate strongly with both critical lenses. As a woman interested in feminist theory, the story's exploration of gender roles, societal expectations, and the limitations placed on women in the 19th century offers rich material for feminist interpretation. The protagonist, Mathilde Loisel, struggles within a patriarchal society; her desire for luxury and social status and the consequences of her choices can be analyzed through a feminist lens to uncover how the story critiques and challenges traditional gender norms. From a Marxist perspective, "The Necklace" critiques the capitalist system through its portrayal of social class disparities, the illusion of wealth and status, and the harsh realities the working class faces. The story's focus on materialism, the pursuit of wealth, and the recoil of striving for social mobility aligns well with Marxist concerns regarding class struggle, exploitation, and the dehumanizing effects of capitalism. I have found that capitalism is usually the true villain in every story, bringing me closer to the story as a result. D. In "The Necklace" by Guy de Maupassant, the interplay of Feminist and Marxist literary theories offers a profound exploration of societal dynamics and power structures. Through a Marxist lens, we can examine the class struggles and conflicts depicted in the story. This sheds light on the perpetuation of class differences and the temptation of social mobility driven by materialistic desires. The narrative criticizes the ever-widening wealth gap and the inherent class struggle in capitalist societies. Feminist literary theory offers a thought-provoking framework to analyze the challenges faced by women, especially the protagonist Mathilde, in a patriarchal society that values external appearances over personal fulfillment. This viewpoint allows us to

Brady 3 dissect themes within the text, such as female empowerment, societal expectations, and the complexities of gender dynamics. THEORY I APPLICATION A. Marxist literary theory is an approach to analyzing texts that focuses on the representation of class conflict, the perpetuation of class distinctions, and the promotion of authors sympathetic to the working class. It examines how literature portrays class struggles and characters from different social classes and evaluates whether narratives challenge or maintain existing class boundaries. Additionally, it explores how literature addresses issues of wealth distribution and capitalist exploitation by examining the connection between economic production and cultural expression. This approach emphasizes the importance of historical context and material conditions in shaping literary texts and provides valuable insights into the societal and economic forces at play within literature. (Brewton). B. In "The Necklace," Marxist literary theory explores class conflict and the reinforcement of class distinctions and critiques authors who sympathize with the working class. Mathilde embodies the struggles of the working class, who aspire for a higher social status driven by material desires beyond their means. The story reflects the rise of capitalism and the widening gap between social classes, highlighting the class struggle inherent in capitalist societies. (de Maupassant). By borrowing a diamond necklace, Mathilde inadvertently entangles herself in a web of financial ruin, symbolizing how pursuing wealth and social status can lead to exploitation and alienation within class structures. This narrative thread mirrors the Marxist emphasis on class conflict and the detrimental effects of capitalism on human relationships (Bertens). Guy de Maupassant's "The Necklace" is a valuable piece of social commentary when analyzed through Marxist literary theory. The story is a poignant critique of the economic disparities and societal

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Brady 4 pressures perpetuating class divisions. Mathilde's downfall embodies the harsh realities of class distinctions and the unattainable illusions propagated by capitalist systems. By analyzing the story from a Marxist perspective, we can explore themes of social mobility, exploitation, and the alienation experienced by those who aspire to transcend their socioeconomic limitations. (Greene). C. By using Marxist literary theory to analyze Guy de Maupassant's short story "The Necklace," we can gain a better understanding of its commentary on class conflict and economic inequality. Applying Marxist principles to the text helps us to examine Mathilde's journey and the societal context in which she lives. One of the most important themes highlighted by the Marxist lens is Mathilde's character arc, which represents the struggles of the working class. She desires a higher social status and material possessions beyond her means, reflecting the consequences of aspiring beyond one's economic station and the class conflicts inherent in capitalist societies. (Lee). As emphasized in Wallace's book Guy de Maupassant , borrowing the diamond necklace symbolizes Mathilde's downfall and serves as a broader metaphor for the exploitative nature of capitalist systems. Through this lens, we can understand Mathilde's entanglement in financial ruin as a manifestation of the detrimental effects of capitalist pursuits on human relationships, echoing core Marxist concerns regarding class conflict and economic exploitation. (Wallace). Through the application of Marxist literary theory, "The Necklace" remains a powerful critique of economic disparities and societal pressures that perpetuate class divisions. This exploration uncovers the enduring relevance of Marxist perspectives in dissecting literature and interrogating societal structures. D. In de Maupassant's work, Marxist literary theory presents a detailed examination of class conflicts and economic inequality prevalent in capitalist societies. The story's protagonist,

Brady 5 Mathilde, represents the working class, driven by materialistic desires beyond her means. The story's late 19th-century setting highlights the growing gap between classes. From a Marxist perspective, the story acts as a critique of societal pressures that perpetuate class divisions and highlights the unattainable illusions propagated by capitalist systems. Mathilde's decision to borrow a diamond necklace and subsequent entanglement in financial ruin symbolize the harmful effects of pursuing wealth and social status. This exposure highlights the exploitative nature of capitalist pursuits and the alienation experienced within class structures. (Bertens). Analyzing the societal influences on Mathilde's consciousness and motivations, the Marxist lens highlights the constructed nature of social norms and values within a capitalist framework. Mathilde's yearning for luxurious possessions and prestigious social circles underscores how economic forces shape individual aspirations and behaviors, reflecting the socially constructed nature of consciousness emphasized by Marxist concepts (Greene). When viewed through the Marxist literary theory, "The Necklace" emerges as a poignant social commentary on themes of social mobility, exploitation, and alienation experienced by those aspiring to transcend their socioeconomic limitations. The narrative reflects the enduring relevance of Marxist perspectives in critiquing literature and societal structures, championing authors sympathetic to the working classes and shedding light on the complexities of class conflict in capitalist societies. One can argue that Mathilde represents the challenges the working class faces, as she desires a higher social status beyond her means. Wallace's depiction of the borrowing of the diamond necklace serves as a metaphor for the exploitative nature of capitalist systems. This ultimately leads to Mathilde's downfall, emphasizing core Marxist concerns about economic exploitation and class conflict. (Wallace).

Brady 6 THEORY II APPLICATION A. Feminist literary theory provides a valuable framework for analyzing how societal norms and power dynamics are portrayed in literary narratives from a gendered standpoint. By scrutinizing the depictions of women in literature and uncovering hidden messages about gender dynamics and societal expectations, feminist critique reveals a lot about the subject. According to Gayle Greene's feminist perspective, womanhood is seen as a social construct rather than an inherent characteristic, which affects how female characters confront societal norms and challenge traditional gender roles. (Greene). A.H. Wallace's examination of married women in literature as either upholding or defying conventional gender roles prompts a closer look at how female characters navigate societal expectations placed upon them (Wallace). Examining female characters from a Feminist literary theory perspective reveals insights into gender, power dynamics, and agency in literature. Authors like Wendy Lee have expanded on this by examining how women navigate their experiences shaped by intersections of gender, race, and class oppression. Through this lens, we can explore how characters challenge societal constraints and prompt critical reflections on gender representations in literature. (Lee). Studying the intersections of gender, race, and class oppression and adopting an activist stance in literature challenges norms and sheds light on gender representations. Feminist Literary theory analyzes gender dynamics, societal expectations, power relations, and representation in literature. (Brewton). B. Mathilde faces the challenges of a patriarchal society that values material possessions and external appearances over personal fulfillment. Using a Feminist lens, we can explore themes of female agency, societal expectations, and the difficulties women face in a largely male-centric environment. A.H. Wallace's exploration of de Maupassant's admiration for the courage and

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Brady 7 nobility of married women challenges traditional gender roles, showcasing a positive view of women that goes against conventional societal norms. This perspective adds depth to our understanding of "The Necklace" and emphasizes the complexities of gender dynamics in the text. (Wallace). Feminist theory emerged as a response to different historical periods' social, political, and economic issues, seeking to dismantle gender-based discrimination and inequality. By applying Feminist literary theory to "The Necklace," we can critically analyze the social constraints imposed on women, the implications of societal expectations, and the representation of female characters within a male-dominated society. (Bertens). C. Feminist literary theory is a powerful lens through which we can unravel and critique the intricate societal constraints imposed on women in the 19th-century setting depicted in Guy de Maupassant's "The Necklace." The protagonist, Mathilde, epitomizes the struggles faced by women within a patriarchal society that places significant emphasis on material possessions and external appearances, often at the expense of personal fulfillment. Mathilde is portrayed as a charming young woman with a decidedly empty purse. Her aspirations for material wealth and social status reflect her personal desires and underscore the societal pressures compelling women to conform to specific standards of living. As de Maupassant articulately illustrates, "She suffers intensely due to her poverty, the worn condition of her dwelling, and the ugliness of her furniture… These things torment her and make her indignant," shedding light on the torment faced by women striving to meet societal expectations (de Maupassant). Drawing from Bertens' insights, Feminist Theory emerges as a response to prevalent social, political, and economic issues, aiming to challenge and dismantle gender-based discrimination and inequality. This critical framework enables us to delve into discussions surrounding female agency, the repercussions of societal expectations, and the challenges women encounter in predominantly

Brady 8 male-centric environments (Bertens). Furthermore, A.H. Wallace's examination of de Maupassant's portrayal of women unveils the author's admiration for their courage and nobility, challenging traditional gender roles and emphasizing a philogynist perspective. Wallace's analysis enriches our understanding of "The Necklace" by contextualizing it within de Maupassant's nuanced views on femininity and societal norms (Wallace). Incorporating Lee's exploration of Marxist ideas and Gayle Greene's interpretation of womanhood as a social construct further enhances our feminist reading of the text. Her discussion on the intersections of oppression based on gender, race, and class, coupled with Greene's notion that consciousness is socially constructed, aligns with the feminist approach of analyzing the cultural and societal influences shaping women's lives (Lee; Greene). D. "The Necklace," through a feminist lens, reveals a profound exploration of the social constraints imposed upon women in the 19th-century patriarchal society. The protagonist, Mathilde, embodies the struggles faced by women within a culture that values material possessions and external appearances over personal fulfillment, exemplifying the gender expectations prevalent during that time. Mathilde is a lower-class, married young woman. Within the context of Mathilde's marriage, we observe how societal expectations and gender norms shape her identity and aspirations. Mathilde's dissatisfaction with her social standing and yearning for material wealth indicate the internalized pressures on women to conform to societal standards of success and prestige. (de Maupassant). When we analyze Mathilde's character through the lens of Feminist Literary theory, we can see how it reflects the limitations imposed upon women in traditional marriages. Her desire for a more luxurious lifestyle and her subsequent actions after losing the borrowed necklace highlight how societal expectations can impact a woman's self-esteem and her ability to act

Brady 9 independently. As Bertens discussed, Feminist Theory emerged as a response to gender-based discrimination and inequality prevalent during different historical periods, challenging power differentials and the marginalization of women. This theory allows us to dissect the challenges Mathilde faces as she navigates a world where her worth is tied to superficial attributes rather than personal agency or fulfillment. (Bertens). In his analysis of de Maupassant's work, A.H. Wallace challenges traditional gender roles by highlighting the portrayal of women as courageous and noble. This perspective showcases a positive attitude towards women, which enriches our understanding of the text. It sheds light on the complexities of female characters like Mathilde and their struggles within a society that restricts their autonomy based on gender expectations. (Wallace). Through the principles of Feminist literary theory, we can dissect the intricate social constraints depicted in "The Necklace," analyze the representation of women, and explore the intersectionality of gender and class within the narrative. Mathilde's story becomes a powerful lens through which we can examine the pervasive gender expectations, societal pressures, and challenges faced by women in a patriarchal society fixated on external appearances and material wealth. CONCLUSION A. When we analyze "The Necklace" by Guy de Maupassant through the lenses of Marxist and Feminist literary theory, a nuanced understanding of the text emerges, transforming our interpretation of the narrative from a mere cautionary tale on vanity to a complex commentary on the impacts of societal standards, gender roles, and class distinctions. The short story appears to caution against vanity. Mathilde Loisel's desire for material possessions and status leads to her downfall. A deeper interpretation of the story highlights how capitalism and patriarchy impose societal standards that prioritize material possessions over personal fulfillment, fueling

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Brady 10 consumerism. The story exposes the challenges faced by women in a patriarchal society where their value is tied to appearances and societal expectations. Mathilde's desire to fit into the upper class highlights the limited opportunities available to women. Furthermore, the story reveals the subtle power dynamics and gender disparities at play and critiques oppressive structures that confine women to predefined roles, perpetuating gender inequalities. B. Through a Feminist lens, Mathilde's character embodies the struggles faced by women in a 19th-century patriarchal society that prioritizes material possessions and appearances over personal fulfillment. Her yearning for a higher social status reflects the internalized pressures on women to conform to societal norms, highlighting the limitations imposed by traditional gender expectations within marital structures. This analysis reveals a deeper exploration of gender inequalities, challenging power differentials and emphasizing the societal constraints women like Mathilde face. When viewed from a Marxist perspective, "The Necklace" unveils a critical examination of class conflict and economic disparities inherent in capitalist societies. Mathilde symbolizes the aspirations of the working class driven by unattainable desires beyond their means, illustrating the widening gap between social classes in the late 19th century. The narrative functions as a critique of the societal pressures perpetuating class divisions, exposing the exploitative nature of capitalism and the alienation experienced within class structures. By analyzing Mathilde's motivations and consciousness through a Marxist lens, we gain insight into how economic forces shape individual behaviors and aspirations, accentuating the constructed nature of social norms within a capitalist framework. Ultimately, "The Necklace" serves as a poignant social commentary on themes of social mobility, exploitation, and alienation experienced by those

Brady 11 striving to transcend their socioeconomic limitations, resonating with enduring Marxist perspectives on literature and societal structures. C. Literary theory and literary studies work together to create diverse perspectives for interpreting and analyzing literature. Literary theory dives into various and critical perspectives on themes, meanings, and elements within literary works, such as Feminism and Marxism. On the other hand, literary studies involve exploring genres, historical contexts, authorial backgrounds, and themes to understand the significance and impact of literary works in broader cultural contexts. The relationship between these fields is symbiotic, as theoretical frameworks inform analytical tools in literary studies, while literary studies provide material for theoretical exploration and application. By integrating theoretical approaches with historical and contextual analyses, scholars can deepen their understanding of literature and engage in critical conversations. In examining "The Necklace" by Guy de Maupassant through the lenses of Feminist and Marxist literary theories, insightful interpretations naturally emerge. Feminism uncovers how societal norms affect the protagonist, Mathilde, emphasizing struggles faced by women under patriarchal constraints. Through this lens, the story exposes pressures on women to conform to societal standards, exploring themes of identity and agency. Marxism critiques class conflict and economic disparity, depicting Mathilde's pursuit of wealth as a commentary on capitalist pursuits and societal division. These theories enrich our comprehension, enabling deeper analysis of gender, class, societal influences, and individual aspirations within "The Necklace."

Brady 12 Works Cited Arinder, Jo Ann. "Feminist Theory." Theoretical Models for Teaching and Research , Pressbooks, opentext.wsu.edu/theoreticalmodelsforteaching andresearch/chapter/feminist-theory/. Accessed 20 Jan. 2024. Bertens, Hans. Literary theory : The Basics, 3rd Edition. Routledge, 2017-07-14. VitalBook file Brewton, Vince. "Literary theory ," The Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy , ISSN 2161- 0002, https://iep.utm.edu/, 20, Jan. 2024. De Maupassant, Guy. "The Necklace." Short Stories & Classic Literature for Readers & Teachers , AmericanLiterature.com, Accessed 20 Jan. 2024.. Greene, Gayle. “Feminist and Marxist Criticism: An Argument for Alliances.” Women’s Studies , vol. 9, no. 1, 1981, https://doi.org/10.1080/00497878.1981.9978553. Lee, Wendy Lynne. “Socialist/Marxist Feminism.” Literary and Critical Theory , 15 Jan. 2020, https://doi.org/10.1093/obo/9780190221911-0088. Wallace, A. H. Guy de Maupassant , Twayne Publishers, 1973. Twayne's World Authors Series 265. Gale eBooks , link.gale.com/apps/doc/CX2545800013/GVRL? u=nhc_main&sid= bookmark -GVRL&xid=38419f21 . Accessed 31 Jan. 2024.

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