The Secret by Guy De Maupassant

Name: The Secret
Author: Guy De Maupassant

The story revolves around a young woman who marries an older man for financial security. She becomes pregnant and gives birth to a child, but the baby dies shortly after birth. The woman's husband is devastated by the loss of his child and begins to withdraw from society. As time passes, the woman becomes increasingly isolated and lonely, feeling trapped in her marriage. She starts to develop feelings for another man, who is younger and more vibrant than her husband. This new relationship brings a sense of excitement and passion back into her life, but it also creates tension and conflict within her. The story explores themes of love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships. It raises questions about the nature of happiness and fulfillment, and whether these can be achieved through material possessions or emotional connections.

By Guy De Maupassant · First published 1883 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Drama, Satire · 2,430 words

First lines

The little Baroness de Grangerie was drowsing on her couch, when the little Marquise of Rennedon entered abruptly, looking very disturbed, her bodice a little rumpled, her hat a little on one side, and dropped into a chair, exclaiming:

"Ouf, I've done it!"

What this Textopian page supports

The Secret is listed on Textopian as a short story by Guy De Maupassant, dated 1883 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: 1883 CE
Language: English
Genres: Literary Fiction, Drama, Satire, Psychological Fiction, Romantic Fiction
Length: 2,430 words
Structure: 1 section, 57 paragraphs
Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)

Good citation fit

Work identity for The Secret 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
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Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering The Secret?
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

Genres

Literary Fiction — The work explores complex themes of marriage, jealousy, and societal expectations through nuanced character interactions and emotional depth.
Drama — The narrative centers on intense personal conflict and emotional turmoil between the characters, highlighting their struggles and desires.
Satire — The text critiques societal norms and the absurdities of relationships, particularly the institution of marriage and gender roles.
Psychological Fiction — The characters' internal thoughts and motivations are explored, revealing their psychological states and the impact of their actions on one another.