Summary of The Gift of the Magi by O. Henry
The Gift of the Magi is a short story by O. Henry.
It focuses on love and sacrifice.
The setting is a small apartment in New York.
Della is a young wife.
She has very little money.
Christmas is approaching fast.
She wants to buy a gift for her husband, Jim.
Jim owns a prized gold watch.
It once belonged to his father.
Della’s most valuable possession is her long hair.
Both items are deeply cherished.
Della sells her hair.
She uses the money to buy a chain for Jim’s watch.
The decision is painful.
Yet, it is made out of love.
Jim returns home later that evening.
He looks surprised when he sees Della.
Then, he reveals his gift.
Jim sold his watch.
He bought beautiful combs for Della’s hair.
The gifts are now useless.
However, their meaning is clear.
The couple realizes the truth.
Their sacrifices show true love.
Material possessions lose importance.
Love becomes the greatest gift of all.
In the end, O. Henry compares Jim and Della to the Magi.
They are wise in their giving.
Their love defines true wealth.