NCERT Class 10 English Foot Prints Without feet Supp. Reader: Chapter 7 — The Necklace
This chapter from NCERT's 'Foot Prints Without Feet' for Class 10 English introduces "The Necklace." It tells the story of Matilda Loisel, a woman born into a clerk's family but dreaming of a life of luxury. Unhappy with her simple existence, she suffers from the poverty of her surroundings and yearns for wealth and social status. Her husband, a kind but modest clerk, tries to please her. When invited to a prestigious party, Matilda is distressed by her lack of a suitable dress and jewels. Her husband's efforts to make her happy highlight her dissatisfaction and the stark contrast between her dreams and reality. The chapter sets the stage for the consequences of her desires and choices.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 10 |
| Subject | English |
| Book | Foot Prints Without feet Supp. Reader |
| Chapter | Chapter 7 — The Necklace |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 2 minutes |
| Word count | 272 |
Learning outcomes
- Analyze the character of Mme Loisel and her constant unhappiness.
- Understand the socio-economic background of the protagonist.
- Identify the reasons for Mme Loisel's dissatisfaction with her life.
- Recognize the husband's character and his attempts to please his wife.
- Comprehend the significance of the invitation to the party and its impact on Matilda.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| dowry | money or property brought by a woman at her marriage |
| distinguished | successful, authoritative, and commanding great respect |
| incessantly | in a way that is non-stop or seems endless |
| delicacies | rare or expensive food items |
| shabby | worn out and in bad condition |
| tureen | a large, deep dish for soup or stew |
| elegant | graceful and stylish in appearance or manner |
| jewels | precious stones, especially when used in jewelry |
| exquisite | extremely beautiful and delicate |
| marvellous | causing wonder; extraordinary |
| elated | ecstatically happy |
| spitefully | in a way that shows malice or ill will |
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Practice questions
- Describe Mme Loisel's personality and her primary source of unhappiness. Answer: Mme Loisel is pretty and young but unhappy because she feels born for a life of luxury and delicacies, which she cannot afford. She is dissatisfied with her simple life, her apartment, and her husband's modest means.
- What was the husband's reaction to the party invitation? Answer: The husband was elated and thought the invitation would make his wife happy, as it was a prestigious event and a rare occasion for them to socialize in high society.
- Why was Mme Loisel upset about the invitation? Answer: She was upset because she felt she had nothing suitable to wear to such a grand affair, specifically lacking a proper dress and jewels.
- How did her husband react to her distress about the dress? Answer: He was initially surprised and then dismayed. He suggested she wear her theatre dress, and when that didn't suffice, he asked how much a suitable costume would cost.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main theme introduced in the beginning of 'The Necklace'?
The main theme introduced is the dissatisfaction of a woman, Mme Loisel, with her ordinary life, as she dreams of luxury and social status she cannot attain.
Who is Mme Loisel and why is she unhappy?
Mme Loisel is a pretty, young woman married to a petty clerk. She is unhappy because she feels she was born for a life of wealth, luxury, and social prominence, which her current circumstances do not provide.
What does Mme Loisel's husband do for a living?
Her husband is a petty clerk in the office of the Board of Education.
What event prompts the story's central conflict?
The central conflict is prompted by an invitation to a grand party at the Minister of Public Instruction's residence.
What is Mme Loisel's immediate reaction to the party invitation?
Instead of being delighted, she reacts with spite and dismay, questioning what she would wear to such an event.
What does Mme Loisel desire most in life?
She desires all the luxuries, delicacies, and social standing that her current life as a clerk's wife does not offer.
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NCERT Class 10 English — Foot Prints Without feet Supp. Reader — Chapter 7 — The Necklace. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.