illustration of two people, a woman and a man, looking at one another in profile with an ornate hair comb between them

The Gift of the Magi

by O. Henry

Start Free Trial

The Gift of the Magi Questions on Della's Hair

The Gift of the Magi Study Tools

Take a quiz Ask a question Start an essay

The Gift of the Magi

In O. Henry's "The Gift of the Magi," Jim and Della Dillingham Young are depicted as "foolish children" who sacrifice their most valued possessions—Della's hair and Jim's watch—to buy gifts for each...

7 educator answers

The Gift of the Magi

Jim and Della take pride in Jim's gold watch and Della's long, beautiful hair. These possessions are significant to them as they symbolize personal and sentimental value, which ultimately leads them...

3 educator answers

The Gift of the Magi

Della's hair in "The Gift of the Magi" symbolizes her love and selflessness. By cutting and selling her long, beautiful hair to buy a gift for her husband, Jim, she demonstrates the depth of her...

5 educator answers

The Gift of the Magi

The author describes Della's hair to highlight its value and significance to her, emphasizing the magnitude of her sacrifice when she sells it. This contrast enhances the story's emotional impact, as...

1 educator answer