The story "The Gift of the Magi" by O. Henry compares Jim and Della to the Magi because they both demonstrate selfless love and sacrifice in their actions. Just as the Wise Men brought gifts to the baby Jesus, Jim and Della give up their most prized possessions to buy gifts for each other.
The Magi's Sacrifice:
- The biblical Magi were said to have traveled a long and arduous journey to bring gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to the newborn Jesus.
- Their gifts were symbolic of Jesus's future role as a king, a divine being, and a suffering savior.
- The Magi's journey and gifts represented their faith, devotion, and willingness to sacrifice for something greater than themselves.
Jim and Della's Sacrifice:
- Jim and Della, despite being poor, choose to give up their most prized possessions – Della's hair and Jim's watch – to buy gifts for each other.
- They both act out of love and a desire to please their partner.
- Their actions demonstrate their willingness to sacrifice their own needs for the sake of their love.
Parallels Between the Magi and Jim and Della:
- Both the Magi and Jim and Della are driven by love and devotion.
- Both are willing to sacrifice for the sake of their loved ones.
- Both value giving above receiving.
The story highlights the theme of true love being a sacrifice and emphasizes that the greatest gift is often the gift of self. By comparing Jim and Della to the Magi, O. Henry suggests that their actions are noble and worthy of admiration.
