Describe the characteristics of Jim and Della in the story ''The Gift of Magi'' by O. Henry.
- print Print
- list Cite
Expert Answers

calendarEducator since 2009
write5,918 answers
starTop subjects are Literature, Social Sciences, and Business
That Jim and Della are simple working class people is revealed in Della's speech: ""Cut it off and sold it," said Della. "Don't you like me just as well, anyhow? I'm me without my hair, ain't I?" That they are young and in love is revealed by the biased limited third-person narrator: "Poor fellow, he was only twenty-two--and to be burdened with a family!" That they are foolish in material ways is clearly stated by the narrator: "two foolish children in a flat who most unwisely sacrificed for each other." That the narrator is representing their material foolishness as spiritual wisdom that reflects the wise sacrifices of the first Christmas...
(The entire section contains 344 words.)
Unlock This Answer Now
Start your 48-hour free trial to unlock this answer and thousands more. Enjoy eNotes ad-free and cancel anytime.
Related Questions
- What is the theme of the story "The Gift of the Magi" by O. Henry?
- 1 Educator Answer
- Is Della and Jim's love believable in O. Henry's short story "The Gift of the Magi"?
- 2 Educator Answers
- What gift did Della buy for Jim and why in "The Gift of the Magi" by O. Henry?
- 1 Educator Answer
- Please explain the characters of Jim and Della in the story "The Gift of the Magi" by O. Henry.
- 1 Educator Answer
- Why does Della misunderstand Jim's reaction in the short story "The Gift of the Magi" by O. Henry?
- 2 Educator Answers