The Gift of the Magi

Front

What is the main theme of 'The Gift of the Magi'?

Back

Love and sacrifice are central themes in 'The Gift of the Magi', illustrating how true love often involves selflessness.

Front

What is situational irony?

Back

Situational irony occurs when the opposite of what is expected happens.

Front

What kind of conflict does Della experience when she sells her hair?

Back

Della experiences an 'Individual vs. Self' conflict, as she struggles with her desire to provide a gift for Jim at the cost of her own prized possession.

Front

How does Jim react to Della's sacrifice?

Back

Jim is confused and upset because he has bought a gift (combs) for Della's long hair, which is now short.

Front

What does Della sell to buy Jim's gift?

Back

Della sells her long hair to buy a platinum chain for Jim's watch.

Front

What does Jim sell to buy Della's gift?

Back

Jim sells his watch to buy a set of combs for Della's hair.

Front

What is the significance of the gifts exchanged between Jim and Della?

Back

The gifts symbolize their love and the sacrifices they are willing to make for each other.

Front

What literary device is used when Jim and Della both sacrifice their most prized possessions?

Back

This is an example of irony, specifically situational irony, as their sacrifices render their gifts useless.

Front

What does the story suggest about material possessions?

Back

The story suggests that material possessions are less important than love and the sacrifices made for loved ones.

Front

How does the setting influence the characters' decisions in 'The Gift of the Magi'?

Back

The setting, a poor neighborhood during the early 1900s, emphasizes the characters' financial struggles and the depth of their sacrifices.