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The, The Rocking Horse Winner And The Necklace

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D.H Lawrence and Guy De Maupassant similarly demonstrate Hester and Mathilde 's struggle of maintaining an illusion of a wealthier life in order to feel a sense of belonging in society. Unfortunately, the quantity of money, land, jewelry, gold and other luxuries are a huge factor in which Hester and Mathilde grade themselves to compare their position in society. When there is wealth, there is superiority and when one is more superior, one has more power. This concept of wealth being helpful to one 's’ societal position is shown through the introduction and setting of the “The Rocking Horse Winner” and “The Necklace”. D.H Lawrence and Guy De Maupassant introduce a sense of urge from both major characters; Hester and Mathilde as they …show more content…

This financial pressure Hester brought upon herself is also sensed throughout the family, explaining the constant whispers of “we need more money”. In comparison to “The Necklace”, the circumstances described through the setting of Mathilde’s life is very similar. Mathilde has a very comfortable life- always having food on the table and having her own servant. However, like Hester, she is not content with what she has and desires more, always comparing herself to others’ financial state. Guy de Maupassant describes Mathilde’s situation to be neither wealthy nor part of social class. She feels as though she deserves to be a member of the more lavish society. Thus, does everything in her power to create a wealthier lifestyle for herself as “she was one of those pretty and charming girls, born by a blunder of destiny in a family of employees” (Maupassant, pg.1).This shows Mathilde’s confidence in herself to believe she was born to be wealthy. However, “She had no dowry, no expectations, no means of being known, understood, loved, married by a man rich and distinguished” (Maupassant, pg.1). In the first couple of lines of the story, Guy De Maupassant introduces Mathilde, whom internally believes is destined for a wealthy and luxurious life. Yet, Mathilde was born in a middle class family and is unsatisfied with her lifestyle

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