Question

In two to three sentences, explain how the story supports the theme "Those who sacrifice for each other are the wisest.”

Answer 1

Answer and Explanation:

This question is about the short story "The Gift of the Magi" by O. Henry. The name of the story is an allusion to the wise Magi who brought gifts to Jesus Christ once he was born.

In the story, Della and her husband Jim end up sacrificing their most valuable possessions to give each a Christmas gift. They are a poor couple, but they love each other very much and cannot bear the idea of not having something nice to give. Della sells her beautiful long hair to buy a gold chain for Jim's watch. Jim sells his watch to buy expensive combs to adorn Della's hair. Therefore, one cannot wear what the other has bought them.

They may not look wise after making such decisions. However, according to the narrator, they are as wise, perhaps even more, than the Magi. Unlike the Magi, Della and Jim made sacrifices because of their love. Being able to sacrifice is a great demonstration of wisdom, and quite a rare one. Jim and Della understand what true love is.

Answer 2

Answer:

Sample response

Explanation:

Sample Response: Della and Jim both make sacrifices for each other because they care about each other. Della sacrifices her hair, and Jim sacrifices his watch. Even though their sacrifices make them unable to use each other's presents, they realize how important their love is. This makes them wise, as the theme suggests.