Footprints Without Feet: The Necklace

Topics in this chapter

• Plot Progression and Climax
• Mathilde’s Character Transformation
• Character Roles and Relationships
• Vanity and Social Class
• Irony and the Final Revelation
• Debt, Sacrifice, and Hardship

Cheat sheet

Practice questions

1. Question 1Q-55A7B1

   What was the primary cause of Matilda's constant unhappiness at the beginning of the story?

   1. A.Her husband's harsh and abusive behavior towards her
   2. B.Her humble, impoverished family background and lack of luxuries
   3. C.Her inability to read and write well
   4. D.Her failing health and chronic illness
   See the answer and solution
2. Question 2Q-3362F8

   How did Monsieur Loisel initially plan to use the four hundred francs he had saved up?

   1. A.To buy a winter coat for Matilda
   2. B.To buy a gun for a hunting summer with his friends
   3. C.To pay off an old debt to his relatives
   4. D.To rent a larger apartment in central Paris
   See the answer and solution
3. Question 3Q-968E1B

   Why did Matilda weep with despair after receiving the invitation to the ministerial ball?

   1. A.Because her husband was uninvited and forbidden to attend
   2. B.Because the party was too far away for them to travel
   3. C.Because she had nothing proper to wear and no jewelry to adorn herself
   4. D.Because she despised the Minister of Public Instruction
   See the answer and solution
4. Question 4Q-8A30E3

   What type of necklace did Madame Forestier lend to Matilda for the party?

   1. A.A genuine diamond necklace
   2. B.A string of pure pearls
   3. C.A necklace made of artificial gems and paste
   4. D.A solid gold heirloom piece
   See the answer and solution
5. Question 5Q-2E9FCC

   Describe the immense transformation in Matilda's lifestyle and physical appearance over the ten years of hardship.

   See the answer and solution