What does Dellas action of cutting her hair off to buy Jim a gift reveal about her character and her relationship with Jim? What does it show about Dellas conflicts, motivation, and traits in the gift of the magi
English · High School · Tue Nov 03 2020
Answered on
It seems you're referring to "The Gift of the Magi" by O. Henry, a short story that explores the theme of self-sacrifice for the sake of love. In the story, Della sells her long, beautiful hair to buy a chain for Jim's prized pocket watch, while Jim sells his watch to buy combs for Della's hair. Here's an analysis of Della's actions and what they reveal about her character and relationship with Jim:
1. Self-Sacrifice and Love: Della's decision to cut her hair symbolizes her willingness to sacrifice something deeply personal and valuable for the person she loves. It underscores the theme of selflessness and the depth of her affection for Jim.
2. Conflict and Struggle: Della's choice to sell her hair reflects the economic struggles the couple faces. The fact that she resorts to such a drastic measure indicates the financial hardship they are experiencing. This adds a layer of realism to the story and emphasizes the challenges the characters are trying to overcome.
3. Motivation: Della's motivation is driven by her desire to give Jim a meaningful and special gift for Christmas. Her actions show that her love for Jim is more important to her than any material possession. The motivation behind her sacrifice is pure and heartfelt.
4. Traits: Della's character is characterized by her resourcefulness, creativity, and, most importantly, her capacity for selfless love. She embodies the spirit of generosity and the idea that the thought and intention behind a gift are more significant than the gift itself.
5. Irony: The story utilizes irony to highlight the unexpected turn of events. Both Della and Jim give up something precious to provide a gift for the other, only to discover that their sacrifices make the intended gifts useless. This irony adds depth to the narrative and emphasizes the true value of their love.
In summary, Della's action of cutting her hair in "The Gift of the Magi" reveals her selflessness, love for Jim, and the hardships they face together. It underscores the central theme of the story, which is the sacrificial nature of true love.