How we cite our quotes: Citations follow this format: (Paragraph)
Quote #4
But by a violent effort she had conquered her trouble, and she replied in a calm voice as she wiped her damp cheeks... (20)
Mathilde comes across as overly sensitive and emotional. She has to work very hard to control her emotions. There's a feminine stereotype for you on which Maupassant is playing.
Quote #5
"No; there's nothing more humiliating than to look poor among a lot of rich women." (37)
Wealth and womanhood are intimately bound up in Mathilde's mind. She wants to look wealthy so she can compete with the rich women.
Quote #6
The day of the party arrived. Mme. Loisel was a success. She was the prettiest of them all, elegant, gracious, smiling, and mad with joy. All the men were looking at her, inquiring her name, asking to be introduced. All the attaches of the Cabinet wanted to dance with her. The Minister took notice of her. (53)
Mathilde's a huge hit. She gets all the men to pay attention her, including the most important one of all (the minister). This is the best moment of her life.