Question

What would have happened, if Matilda had not lost the diamond necklace?

Hint:

When answering such hypothetical questions, it is effective to create a contrast between the actual events of the story and the potential alternative. Discuss both the emotional and physical consequences that would have been avoided.

Answer 1

If Matilda had not lost the diamond necklace, her life would have been drastically different. She would have continued to live her simple, middle-class life, possibly remaining discontented with her status but avoiding the ten years of extreme poverty and hardship she endured to repay the debt. She would have retained her beauty and youth for longer. Most importantly, she and her husband would not have had their lives ruined over a piece of jewelry that, ironically, turned out to be fake. They would have lived a life of simple comfort instead of abject misery.