Analyzing Elements of a Short Story
“The Necklace” Page 196
I. Characterization
Part A: Provide examples from the text that show how each character is developed. Write the quotation, as well as
the page numbers on which the quotations can be found. Then, explain what the quotation reveals about the
character.
1. Madame Loisel
Direct comments from author
Quotation:
Physical descriptions
Quotation:
What it reveals about the character:
Character’s own speech, thoughts, actions, feelings
Quotation:
What it reveals about the character:
Speech, thoughts, actions, feelings of other characters
Quotation:
What it reveals about the character:
2. Monsieur Loisel
Direct comments from author
Quotation:
Physical descriptions
Quotation:
What it reveals about the character:
Character’s own speech, thoughts, actions, feelings
Quotation:
What it reveals about the character:
Speech, thoughts, actions, feelings of other characters
Quotation:
What it reveals about the character:
Part B: Provide an example of each type of character from “The Necklace” below. Be sure to explain why you chose
each example.
Static: _______________________________________
Explanation: ____________________________________________________________________
Dynamic: ______________________________________
Explanation: ____________________________________________________________________
Flat: ______________________________________
Explanation: ____________________________________________________________________
Round: ______________________________________
Explanation: ____________________________________________________________________
Protagonist: ______________________________________
Explanation: ____________________________________________________________________
Antagonist: ______________________________________
Explanation: ____________________________________________________________________
II. Setting
How does the setting in this story influence the characters and, in essence, drive the plot?
III. Plot
Using the text, identify and describe the different parts of the story plotline.
Exposition
Rising Action
Climax
Falling Action
Resolution
(Denouement)
IV. Conflict
Respond to the following questions in writing. Discuss each response with your groups and be prepared to discuss as
a class.
1. What is the major internal conflict Mme. Loisel experiences with herself? How does this conflict affect the
plot/drive the plot forward?
2. What is the major external conflict Mme. Loisel faces? How does this conflict affect the plot/drive the plot
forward?
3. How does this conflict influence the development of Mme. Loisel’s character?
4. Where is the irony in the resolution to the conflict?
V. Theme
In your groups, brainstorm a list of themes for “The Necklace.” Be sure your ideas are written as complete statements.
1. _________________________________________________________________
2. _________________________________________________________________
3. _________________________________________________________________
4. _________________________________________________________________
What role do the characters play in developing the themes? Be specific and provide examples.
What role do the major conflicts play in the development of theme? Be specific.