Who is Mathilde from The Masterpiece and what is their importance?

Mathilde is described as a somewhat repugnant woman, who reeks of the herbs and spices in her husband's shop. Unhappy at home, she has affairs with Mahoudeau, Chaîne, and Jory. After her husband death, Mathilde finds religion, presumably to prevent the locals from gossiping about her affairs. Eventually, she marries Jory and puts on an aura of respectability, though the aroma of herbs still lingers about her person.,