An Unfortunate Likeness
The story revolves around a young woman who bears an uncanny resemblance to the deceased wife of a wealthy and influential man. The protagonist's presence sparks a series of events that expose the darker aspects of human nature, particularly in regards to class, power, and social status. As the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear that the protagonist is not just a physical double but also a catalyst for the repressed desires and emotions of those around her. Her presence awakens long-dormant feelings and forces individuals to confront their own moral ambiguities. Through this exploration, the story critiques societal norms and expectations, highlighting the tension between appearance and reality, as well as the consequences of unchecked ambition and desire. The narrative is characterized by a sense of foreboding and inevitability, building towards a tragic conclusion that underscores the devastating consequences of unchecked human nature.
By Guy de Maupassant · First published 1884 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Romance, Psychological Fiction · 1,195 words
First lines
It was during one of those sudden changes of the electric light, which at one time throws rays of exquisite pale pink, of a liquid gold filtered through the light hair of a woman, and at another, rays of bluish hue with strange tints, such as the sky assumes at twilight, in which the women with their bare shoulders looked like living flowers -- it was, I say, on the night of the first of January at Montonirail's, the dainty painter of tall, undulating figures, of bright dresses, of Parisian prettiness -- that tall Pescarelle, whom some called "Pussy," though I do not know why, suddenly said in a low voice:
What this Textopian page supports
An Unfortunate Likeness is listed on Textopian as a short story by Guy de Maupassant, dated 1884 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Guy de Maupassant
- Date: 1884 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Literary Fiction, Romance, Psychological Fiction, Realism, Satire
- Length: 1,195 words
- Structure: 1 section, 16 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for An Unfortunate Likeness by Guy de Maupassant
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering An Unfortunate Likeness?
- How does this short story by Guy de Maupassant fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Literary Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Will by Guy De Maupassant
- Bellflower by Guy De Maupassant
- An Adventure In Paris by Guy De Maupassant
- A Cock Crowed by Guy De Maupassant
- The Child by Guy De Maupassant
- Theodule Sabots Confession by Guy De Maupassant
Genres
- Literary Fiction — The narrative focuses on character development, emotional depth, and explores complex themes of love and disillusionment.
- Romance — Central to the story is the protagonist's intense romantic infatuation and subsequent disillusionment with Lucy.
- Psychological Fiction — The story delves into the protagonist's internal conflict and psychological transformation upon realizing the future implications of his infatuation.
- Realism — The narrative style and setting reflect a realistic portrayal of human emotions and societal norms of the time.
Tags
Psychological Fiction · Short Story · French Literature · Realism · Naturalism · Existential Crisis · Identity Crisis · Social Commentary · Class Struggle · Marriage Problems · Love Triangle · Jealousy