IndexIntroductionSummary of the storyAnalysis of the theme of sacrificeAnalysis of selfless loveComparison with the MagiConclusionReferencesIntroduction"The Gift of the Magi" is a 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 Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Story Summary The story is set on Christmas Eve and Della is worried about buying a present for Jim since 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 gifts, they realize that they both sacrificed what they treasured 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 hard-working man who adores his wife. The story is told from a third-person omniscient point of view, allowing us to experience 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 precious 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 each other exemplify sacrifice. There are two main meanings of their sacrifices. First, their sacrifices show how much they love and appreciate each other. By selling their most cherished items, they demonstrate that their love for each other is worth more than their possessions. Second, their sacrifices convey 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 prevalent theme in the story. Selfless love refers to the act of putting someone else's needs and happiness above your 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 emotional impact the story has on readers, making it a timeless holiday classic. Comparison with the Magi The title of the story, "The Gift of the Magi", is significant as it symbolizes Della and Jim's sacrifices. The Magi were the three wise men who traveled to Bethlehem to bring gifts to the baby Jesus and signify the act of giving gifts at Christmas. There is a parallel between Della and Jim's sacrifices and those of the Magi. Magi gave gifts to a higher power, while Della and Jim exchanged 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 essence of Christmas. Please note: this is just an example. Get a Custom 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 prized possessions to purchase a gift for each other highlights the importance of the act of giving as an expression of love. The story is a timeless classic that reminds us of the true meaning of Christmas, which is about giving.