"The Gift of the Magi" by O. Henry is a poignant tale of a young, impoverished couple, Jim and Della, trying to buy Christmas gifts for each other. Despite their financial difficulties, they both treasure their two most expensive possessions: Dellaβs beautiful, long hair, and ....
The Gift of Magi - Literature Billabong High - Class 8 - English
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Back Questions - The Gift of Magi | Literature Billabong High | Class 8 Literature | English
Is 'The Gift of Magi' a story within a story?
No, 'The Gift of the Magi' is not a story within a story, it is a single narrative focusing on a young couple, Jim and Della, and the sacrifices they made for each other to bring about the best Christmas present for each other. The narrative begins with Della, who only has $1.87 to buy a gift for Jim, and decides to sell her most valuable possession, her hair, to buy a chain for Jim's watch. Unbeknownst to her, Jim also makes a significant sacrifice by selling his most treasured item, his watch, to buy a set of combs for Della's hair. In the end, both ended up with gifts that they could not use immediately, signifying the selfless love they have for each other.
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Do you think O. Henry himself is the narrator of the story? Justify.
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Unlock now πIs Della and Jim's love believable? Why or why not?
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Unlock now πDo you think the story's ending is a happy one?
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Unlock now πExplore the theme of 'sacrifice' that comes to light in the story.
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Unlock now πDescribe the story in your own words.
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Unlock now πBring out the concept of 'Beauty' that has been explored in the story.
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Unlock now πWhat do Della's hair and Jim's watch symbolise?
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Unlock now πWhy do Jim and Della feel light and happy as they prepare for supper in 'The Gift of Magi'?
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Unlock now πWhat does 'The Gift of Magi', by O. Henry highlight about the society and time period in which it was written and set against?
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Unlock now πWould one find such unselfish love in today's consumerist society?
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Unlock now πWhat do you think 'The Gift of Magi,' written a century ago, has to say about our consumer society today?
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Unlock now πThe story 'The Gift of Magi' reinforces the idea that material possessions are not important, what matters is the thought and the love behind the gift. do you agree with this? Think of the gifts you have received. Choose at least three among them which you consider 'invaluable'. What makes them invaluable--their price or the meaning they hold to you?
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Unlock now πWrite the character sketch of Jim.
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Unlock now πWrite the character sketch of Della.
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Unlock now πAbout the Author - The Gift of Magi | Literature Billabong High | Class 8 Literature | English
O. Henry, whose real name was William Sydney Porter, was an American short story writer who is known for his humorously warm and often surprise-ending tales. Born on September 11, 1862, in Greensboro, North Carolina, Henry began writing at a young age. Notably, his stories feature ordinary characters, realistic dialogues, and clever twist endings.
In 1882, Henry moved to Texas where he explored various occupations, including that of a bank teller, ranch hand, and journalist. However, he faced legal trouble and was sentenced to prison on charges of embezzlement from a bank where he worked. During his imprisonment, he maintained a prolific output of short stories to support his daughter.
After his release, he moved to New York City, where he published many of his most enduring works, including "The Gift of the Magi" and "The Cop and the Anthem." His writing style often showcases the joys and tragedies of life in the city, offering sharp social commentary cleverly masked in entertaining and evocative narratives.
O. Henry died on June 5, 1910, leaving behind a legacy of more than 600 short stories. His works continue to be celebrated for their wit, surprise endings, and deep human touches.
Summary - The Gift of Magi | Literature Billabong High | Class 8 Literature | English
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Themes - The Gift of Magi | Literature Billabong High | Class 8 Literature | English
Love and Sacrifice: One of the primary themes in "The Gift of the Magi" is the love that the protagonists, Della and Jim, share for each other, which motivates their respective sacrifices. Both decide to sell their most prized possessions to buy gifts....
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Unlock now πPlot - The Gift of Magi | Literature Billabong High | Class 8 Literature | English
1. Introduction: This is where we get to know a young couple, Della and Jim, who live in a modest apartment. Times are tough and money.....
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Unlock now πImportant Lines - The Gift of Magi | Literature Billabong High | Class 8 Literature | English
1. "ONE DOLLAR AND EIGHTY-SEVEN CENTS. That was all." - This line highlights the financial struggle faced by the characters, setting the stage ...
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