Table of contentsIntroductionSummary of the storyAnalysis of the theme of sacrificeAnalysis of selfless loveComparison with the MagiConclusionReferencesIntroduction “The gift of the Magi” is a short story by O. Henry which revolves around the selfless and unconditional love between a young couple, Della and Jim. In this essay, we will explore how O. Henry uses the theme of sacrifice to describe their love for each other. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay Story Summary The story takes place on Christmas Eve and Della is worried about buying a gift for Jim because she doesn't have enough money. To raise money, she sells her beautiful long hair, while Jim sells his prized pocket watch to buy Della a set of combs. When they exchange their gifts, they realize that they have both sacrificed what they cherished most to buy a gift for the other. Della and Jim are the central characters of the story. Della is depicted as a young woman deeply in love with her husband, while Jim is a hardworking man who adores his wife. The story is told from a third-person omniscient point of view, allowing us to feel the thoughts and emotions of both characters. Analysis of the Theme of Sacrifice The theme of sacrifice is prevalent throughout the story. Sacrifice refers to the act of giving up something valuable for the sake of someone else or a higher cause. Della and Jim's actions of selling their most prized possessions to buy a gift for the other illustrate sacrifice. Their sacrifices have two main meanings. First, their sacrifices demonstrate how much they love and value each other. By selling their most precious items, they show that their love for each other is worth more than their possessions. Second, their sacrifices send a powerful message about the true meaning of Christmas, which is about giving selflessly without expecting anything in return. Analysis of Selfless Love Selfless love is another prominent theme in the story. Selfless love refers to placing someone else's needs and happiness above one's own desires. Della and Jim's actions stem from selfless love as they prioritize their partner's happiness over their own. Their acts of selfless love drive the narrative of the story. Their love is not transactional or conditional, but rather selfless and unconditional. It is this depiction of love that is responsible for the story's emotional impact on readers, making it a timeless festive classic. Comparison with the Magi The title of the story, "The Gift of the Magi", is significant because it symbolizes Della and Jim's sacrifices. The Magi were the three wise men who went to Bethlehem to give gifts to the baby Jesus and signify the act of gift giving at Christmas. There is a parallel between the sacrifices of Della and Jim and those of the Magi. The Magi gave gifts to a higher power, while Della and Jim gave each other gifts, demonstrating their unconditional love. The comparison highlights the message that the act of giving, regardless of the recipient, is an expression of love and sacrifice, which is the very essence of Christmas. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized paper now from our expert writers. .Get a Custom EssayConclusionIn conclusion, “The Gift of the Magi” is a beautiful story that depicts the power of sacrifice and selfless love. Della and Jim's sacrifice of their most precious possessions to buy.