Title: The Nature of Value: Materialism in "The Necklace" and "Civil Peace"
In exploring the concept of value, both "The Necklace" by Guy de Maupassant and "Civil Peace" by Chinua Achebe reveal the complexities of materialism through their protagonists' perceptions of worth. Valuables transcend monetary worth; they encompass individual desires, societal perceptions, and psychological attachments. As the narratives unfold, both Mathilde Loisel and Jonathan Iwegbu confront their aspirations and the consequences of their relationship with material possessions, ultimately challenging the reader to reconsider what truly constitutes treasure.
In "The Necklace," Mathilde Loisel embodies materialism through her longing for a life filled with luxury and status. She feels trapped in her middle-class existence, yearning for the elegance and wealth she believes defines happiness. Her discontent is vividly illustrated in the story when she laments, "She was unhappy because she had not been born with wealth." Her desire for status leads her to borrow what she believes to be an expensive necklace, believing it will elevate her social standing. The irony of the story is rooted in the necklace's true value; it is only later revealed to be a mere imitation. This twist serves as a critique of materialism, suggesting that the pursuit of superficial status can lead one to ruin. Mathilde's struggle culminates in years of hardship and servitude to repay the debt incurred from replacing the necklace, demonstrating how her misguided values brought about her downfall.
In contrast, Jonathan Iwegbu in "Civil Peace" emerges as a character who embodies resilience and pragmatism in the aftermath of Nigeria’s Civil War. His perspective on value differs markedly from Mathilde's, as he finds treasure in the simpler aspects of life. He utters, "Nothing puzzles God," reflecting his belief in the importance of what remains rather than what has been lost. Jonathan values his survival and the well-being of his family above material wealth, appreciating the ‘egg-rasher’ or the small profit he derives from salvaging what remained post-war. His ability to derive contentment from humble possessions highlights a stark contrast to Mathilde's aspirations, illustrating how circumstances can redefine value. Jonathan's setting—a war-torn Nigeria—further emphasizes the scarcity of material goods and leads to a deeper appreciation for life itself.
Throughout both stories, the authors utilize descriptions of settings and objects to deepen the thematic exploration of material worth. In "The Necklace," the opulent setting of the ball starkly contrasts with Mathilde's mundane life, illustrating her longing for luxury. Maupassant writes about the "glittering" ball, filled with "jewels and silks," epitomizing the objects of desire that Mathilde seeks. Conversely, in "Civil Peace," Achebe's description of Jonathan's meager possessions conveys a sense of gratitude for the everyday—his bicycle, which serves as both a means of transportation and a symbol of his industrious spirit, becomes a source of pride rather than shame.
In conclusion, "The Necklace" and "Civil Peace" provide rich narratives that explore the nature of value through the lens of materialism, revealing differing perspectives on what constitutes treasure. Mathilde Loisel's tragic pursuit of status serves as a cautionary tale against the dangers of material obsession, while Jonathan Iwegbu's appreciation for simple survival highlights the resilience of the human spirit. Ultimately, these stories illustrate that true value lies not in the objects themselves, but in the relationships, experiences, and perspectives we cultivate around them. Through their journeys, readers are invited to reflect on their own definitions of treasure and the intrinsic worth of life’s simpler pleasures.