The Gift of the Magi Group

Question:


torso2
Student
High School - 11th Grade

In "The Gift of the Magi," why does the author describe Della and Jim as "two foolish children who sacrifice their greatest treasures"?

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Posted by torso2 on Thursday February 26, 2009 at 5:32 AM and tagged with characters, della, jim, quotes, the gift of the magi, themes.

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  1. parkerlee
    parkerlee Teacher

    eNotes Editor

    They were foolish in that they did not consult each other before deciding on what gifts to give. For this reason, Della sold her magnificent hair for a watch chain to put on Jim's fob (a family heirloom), which he unfortunately sold for a turtleshell hair clasp (which evidently Della couldn't use anymore).

    They were wise (therefore, like the Magi) in that they gave in the true spirit of sacrifice. Their "useless" gifts were the demonstration of their love for each other, which was beyond price. O. Henry uses this contrast to make the point that sincere giving is a state of the heart, which in itself is more precious than any object which can simply be bought or sold.

    The juxtaposition of two opposites which at first glance seem to contradict each other (but really don't upon closer scrutiny) is a literary device called an oxymoron. Calling Della and Jim both "foolish children" and "the Magi" is an example of this.

    See the reference below for further insight into other elements of the "O. Henry formula."

    Sources:
    http://www.enotes.com/gift-magi/cheap-rooms-restless-hearts

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    Posted by parkerlee on Thursday February 26, 2009 at 5:57 AM