Publisher Description

Mathilde aspires to high society, despite being married to a low-paid clerk who tries his best to please her. When he manages to cadge an invitation to a grand ball at the Ministry of Education, Mathilde refuses to attend unless she can look the part. She obtains a splendid gown, but then demands a necklace to go with it.

Author Biography

HENRI RENÉ ALBERT GUY DE MAUPASSANT (1850-93) was born in Normandy, France. With his acquaintance Gustave Flaubert as his mentor, he began writing in his late twenties, and by his early thirties he was an acknowledged master of the short-story form. He wrote 300 stories in addition to novels, travel books and poetry.

Review

"...he wrote from the fullness of a compassionate heart. He is merciless, yet gentle ..."--Joseph Conrad

Long Description

Mathilde aspires to high society, despite being married to a low-paid clerk who tries his best to please her. When he manages to cadge an invitation to a grand ball at the Ministry of Education, Mathilde refuses to attend unless she can look the part. She obtains a splendid gown, but then demands a necklace to go with it.

Review Quote

"...he wrote from the fullness of a compassionate heart. He is merciless, yet gentle ..." --Joseph Conrad

Details