Saturday, January 9, 2016

How does O. Henry define Jim and Della's characters in "The Gift of the Magi"?

We are given better definitions of these characters from their setting and surroundings. Right away, we realize that Jim and Della are leading a rather meager existence, as their home is not lavish, and their words and actions are those that are typically associated with financial struggle.

Even with the state of near-poverty that they are living in, however, Jim and Della both find it within their hearts to sacrifice what is dearest to them for the sake of the other person's happiness -- Della sells her hair, Jim sells his watch, and ironically, the gift that each receives has to do with the very thing they sold for the other person's pleasure (Della gets combs, Jim gets a watch chain). Through the settings, characterizations, and plot of this story, we are shown the true nature of both Jim and Della.

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