'The Gift of the Magi' Literary Analysis Flashcard

Front

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

Back

The main theme is the sacrifice and love between Jim and Della, highlighting how true love often involves selflessness.

Front

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

Back

The setting creates a sense of poverty and hardship, which drives the characters to make sacrifices for each other.

Front

What is irony, and how is it exemplified in 'The Gift of the Magi'?

Back

Irony is a contrast between expectation and reality. In the story, Della sells her hair to buy a chain for Jim's watch, but Jim sells his watch to buy combs for Della's hair.

Front

What does Della's hair symbolize in the story?

Back

Della's hair symbolizes her beauty and her willingness to sacrifice something precious for love.

Front

What role does the pocket watch play in 'The Gift of the Magi'?

Back

The pocket watch symbolizes Jim's family heritage and his connection to his past.

Front

What does the act of gift-giving represent in the context of the story?

Back

Gift-giving represents the depth of love and the willingness to sacrifice for one another.

Front

How do Jim and Della's sacrifices reflect their love for each other?

Back

Their sacrifices show that they value each other's happiness over their own material possessions.

Front

What is the significance of the title 'The Gift of the Magi'?

Back

The title refers to the wise men (Magi) who brought gifts to Jesus, paralleling Jim and Della's selfless gifts to each other.

Front

What literary devices are prominent in 'The Gift of the Magi'?

Back

Prominent literary devices include irony, symbolism, and foreshadowing.

Front

How does the ending of 'The Gift of the Magi' reinforce its themes?

Back

The ending reinforces the themes of love and sacrifice, showing that material possessions are less important than the love shared between Jim and Della.