Question

Evaluate the scene where Della and Jim exchange gifts. What effect does this situation have on the story? Which stage of plot development would you consider this event to be in-rising action, climax, falling action, or resolution? Why?​

Answer 1

Answer:

Before Della and Jim exchange gifts, the reader sees anxiety between them about the fact that Della cut her hair. When the characters exchange gifts, the reader and the characters see the situational irony of the moment. Both characters sacrificed something they deeply valued to buy something the other would value. Yet what the characters sell makes the gifts they receive useless. The exchange of the gifts is the climax because the story revolves around the purchase of these gifts and what they represent. The story is resolved when the characters realize that their presents are materially useless but symbolize the deep love they share.

This would be the climax of the story because we are anticipating the reactions of both of the lovers. The falling acting would be after this, when they accept each others sacrifice for each other and enjoy a Christmas meal together.