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The Ransom of Red Chief

by O. Henry

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The Ransom of Red Chief

"The Ransom of Red Chief" is a humorous short story by O. Henry that alludes to the biblical story of the Prodigal Son. It satirizes the kidnapping trope by having the kidnapped boy, Red Chief, turn...

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The Ransom of Red Chief

To begin a response to "The Ransom of Red Chief," start by brainstorming key elements such as the main idea, themes, and character analysis. Consider O. Henry's intent beyond entertainment and the...

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The Ransom of Red Chief

The kidnappers convince Red Chief to return home by telling him his father bought him a gun and they would hunt bears the next day. Upon returning him, they pay a $250 reverse ransom to his father,...

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The Ransom of Red Chief

The narrator of "The Ransom of Red Chief" is Sam, one of the two kidnappers. The magazine referenced is the Police Gazette, which Bill reads while they are holding the boy captive.

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