Think about the ending of “The Gift of the Magi.” What do the protagonists value the most? What does this ending say about the value of objects? You may remember that situational irony is when events do not go as expected. You may have expected, as Della did, that Jim would be delighted with his watch chain. And Jim clearly thought Della would be thrilled with her new hair combs. However, in their sacrifice of their most precious possessions, they demonstrated the high value each held in the other's heart.

O. Henry ends with, "They are the Magi." What does this allusion mean? In his story, O. Henry repeatedly uses biblical allusions (the Queen of Sheba, King Solomon, the hairs of the head being numbered, and the Magi). If the Magi were wise men or kings, as some traditions tell, how does this characterize their gifts? Through his allusion, O. Henry likens Jim and Della's gifts to priceless objects chosen by the wise to give to a king. Indeed, by saying, "They are the Magi," he imbues Jim and Della with the wisdom of legendary sages.

In your journal, write about a gift that you have given or received that holds high value for you. Why was the gift so valuable?