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The Gift of the Magi – CBSE NCERT Study Resources

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9th

9th - English (Panorama Part‑1)

The Gift of the Magi

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Overview of the Chapter

The chapter The Gift of the Magi is a heartwarming short story by O. Henry, included in the CBSE Grade 9 English textbook (Panorama Part-1). It explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the true meaning of gift-giving through the story of a young couple, Jim and Della, who make extraordinary sacrifices to buy each other Christmas gifts.

The Gift of the Magi: A story that highlights the selfless love between a couple who sell their most prized possessions to buy gifts for each other, only to realize that their greatest gift is their love.

Key Themes

  • Love and Sacrifice
  • The True Value of Gifts
  • Selflessness in Relationships

Characters

  • Della Young: A devoted wife who sells her long hair to buy a gift for her husband.
  • Jim Young: Della's loving husband, who sells his prized watch to buy combs for Della's hair.

Summary

Della and Jim are a poor couple who wish to buy each other meaningful Christmas gifts. Della sells her beautiful hair to purchase a chain for Jim's watch, while Jim sells his watch to buy combs for Della's hair. When they exchange gifts, they realize the irony of their sacrifices, but their love for each other remains the most precious gift of all.

Moral of the Story

The story teaches that the greatest gifts are not material possessions but the love and sacrifices made for those we care about.

All Question Types with Solutions – CBSE Exam Pattern

Explore a complete set of CBSE-style questions with detailed solutions, categorized by marks and question types. Ideal for exam preparation, revision and practice.

Very Short Answer (1 Mark) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These are 1-mark questions requiring direct, concise answers. Ideal for quick recall and concept clarity.

Question 1:
Who are the main characters in The Gift of the Magi?
Answer:

Jim and Della.

Question 2:
What did Della sell to buy Jim's gift?
Answer:

Her long hair.

Question 3:
What did Jim sell to buy Della's gift?
Answer:

His gold watch.

Question 4:
What was Della's gift for Jim?
Answer:

A platinum fob chain.

Question 5:
What was Jim's gift for Della?
Answer:

A set of combs.

Question 6:
Why were their gifts ironic?
Answer:

Both gifts became useless.

Question 7:
What is the theme of The Gift of the Magi?
Answer:

Selfless love and sacrifice.

Question 8:
Where does the story take place?
Answer:

In a small apartment.

Question 9:
How much money did Della have initially?
Answer:

One dollar and eighty-seven cents.

Question 10:
What does Magi refer to in the title?
Answer:

The wise men who gave gifts.

Question 11:
What was Della's most prized possession?
Answer:

Her long, beautiful hair.

Question 12:
What was Jim's most prized possession?
Answer:

His gold watch.

Question 13:
How does the story end?
Answer:

They realize their love is priceless.

Question 14:
What literary device is used in The Gift of the Magi?
Answer:

Irony.

Question 15:
Who are the main characters in The Gift of the Magi?
Answer:

The main characters are Della and Jim, a young couple deeply in love.

Question 16:
What is the central theme of The Gift of the Magi?
Answer:

The central theme is selfless love and the idea that true happiness comes from giving, not receiving.

Question 17:
Why did Della sell her hair?
Answer:

Della sold her long, beautiful hair to buy a Christmas gift for Jim, showing her love and sacrifice.

Question 18:
What gift did Jim buy for Della?
Answer:

Jim bought a set of combs for Della's hair, not knowing she had sold it.

Question 19:
How does the story highlight irony?
Answer:

The irony lies in both characters sacrificing their most prized possessions to buy gifts that become useless due to their sacrifices.

Question 20:
What does the title The Gift of the Magi symbolize?
Answer:

It symbolizes wise and selfless giving, comparing Della and Jim to the biblical Magi who brought gifts to Jesus.

Question 21:
Describe the setting of the story.
Answer:

The story is set in a small, modest apartment during Christmas Eve, reflecting the couple's financial struggles.

Question 22:
What was Della's most prized possession?
Answer:

Della's most prized possession was her long, beautiful hair, which she sold to buy Jim's gift.

Question 23:
How does the story end?
Answer:

The story ends with the couple realizing their love and sacrifice are the greatest gifts, despite the irony of their presents.

Question 24:
What literary device is prominent in The Gift of the Magi?
Answer:

The story uses irony and symbolism to convey its message of love and sacrifice.

Question 25:
Why is the story considered a classic?
Answer:

It is a classic because it teaches a timeless lesson about love, sacrifice, and the true spirit of giving.

Question 26:
How does Jim react when he sees Della's short hair?
Answer:

Jim is initially shocked but quickly realizes her sacrifice and loves her even more for it.

Very Short Answer (2 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 2-mark questions test key concepts in a brief format. Answers are expected to be accurate and slightly descriptive.

Question 1:
Why did Della sell her hair in The Gift of the Magi?
Answer:

Della sold her long, beautiful hair to buy a platinum fob chain for Jim's watch. She wanted to give him a meaningful gift despite their financial struggles.

Question 2:
What was Jim's reaction when he saw Della's short hair?
Answer:

Jim was shocked and speechless at first because he had sold his watch to buy combs for Della's hair. His reaction shows the irony of their sacrifices.

Question 3:
How does O. Henry describe the Magi in the story?
Answer:

O. Henry refers to the Magi as wise men who brought gifts to baby Jesus. He compares Jim and Della to the Magi, calling them the wisest because their gifts represent pure love.

Question 4:
What is the significance of the title The Gift of the Magi?
Answer:

The title signifies that Jim and Della's gifts, though seemingly foolish, are priceless like those of the Magi. Their sacrifices reflect wisdom and deep affection.

Question 5:
How does the setting contribute to the story's mood?
Answer:

The modest apartment and financial struggles create a humble and emotional mood, emphasizing the couple's love despite their poverty.

Question 6:
What literary device is used in the phrase 'the dull precious metal seemed to flash'?
Answer:

The phrase uses personification, as the metal is given human-like qualities (seemed to flash) to highlight its emotional value to Della.

Question 7:
Why are Jim and Della called 'foolish children' in the story?
Answer:

They are called foolish children ironically because their sacrifices seem unwise, but their love makes them the wisest gift-givers, like the Magi.

Question 8:
What does Della's hair symbolize in the story?
Answer:

Della's hair symbolizes beauty and sacrifice. By selling it, she shows her willingness to give up something precious for Jim's happiness.

Question 9:
How does the story end, and what message does it convey?
Answer:

The story ends with the couple realizing their gifts are unusable but cherishing their love. It conveys that selflessness and emotional connection matter more than material things.

Question 10:
What role does irony play in The Gift of the Magi?
Answer:

Irony is central to the story. Jim sells his watch for Della's combs, while she sells her hair for his chain. This twist highlights their unintentional yet profound love.

Short Answer (3 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 3-mark questions require brief explanations and help assess understanding and application of concepts.

Question 1:
What is the central theme of The Gift of the Magi by O. Henry?
Answer:

The central theme of The Gift of the Magi is selfless love and sacrifice. The story highlights how Jim and Della, despite their poverty, give up their most prized possessions to buy gifts for each other.
Their actions symbolize the true spirit of giving, where the value lies in the intention rather than the material worth.
O. Henry emphasizes that love and sacrifice are more precious than any worldly possession.

Question 2:
How does the setting of the story contribute to its overall message?
Answer:

The story is set in a modest apartment during Christmas, which enhances the theme of sacrifice and love.
The humble surroundings reflect the financial struggles of Jim and Della, making their sacrifices even more meaningful.
The festive season contrasts with their poverty, emphasizing that true happiness comes from relationships, not wealth.

Question 3:
Explain the significance of the title The Gift of the Magi.
Answer:

The title refers to the Biblical Magi (Wise Men) who brought gifts to baby Jesus, symbolizing wisdom and sacrifice.
Similarly, Jim and Della's gifts represent their wisdom in understanding the true meaning of love.
Though their gifts become useless, their act of giving is priceless, just like the Magi's offerings.

Question 4:
Describe the irony in the story The Gift of the Magi.
Answer:

The story has a situational irony where both characters sacrifice their most valued possessions to buy gifts that are now unusable.
Della sells her hair to buy Jim a chain for his watch, while Jim sells his watch to buy combs for Della's hair.
This irony highlights their deep love and the futility of material sacrifices in the face of true affection.

Question 5:
How does O. Henry portray the relationship between Jim and Della?
Answer:

O. Henry portrays Jim and Della as a loving and selfless couple. Their actions show mutual respect and devotion.
Despite their financial hardships, they prioritize each other's happiness over their own needs.
The author uses their sacrifices to emphasize that true love is about giving, not receiving.

Question 6:
What literary devices are used in The Gift of the Magi to enhance its emotional impact?
Answer:

O. Henry uses several literary devices:

  • Irony: The unexpected outcome of their gifts.
  • Symbolism: The gifts represent love and sacrifice.
  • Foreshadowing: Della's hesitation about her hair hints at her sacrifice.
These devices deepen the emotional connection and highlight the story's themes.

Question 7:
How does the setting of The Gift of the Magi contribute to the story's central theme?
Answer:

The setting of The Gift of the Magi, a modest home during Christmas, highlights the theme of sacrificial love. The humble surroundings emphasize the couple's financial struggles, making their sacrifices (selling prized possessions) more poignant. The festive season contrasts their poverty, reinforcing the idea that true love matters more than material wealth.

Question 8:
Why is the title The Gift of the Magi significant to the story?
Answer:

The title references the Biblical Magi (wise men) who gave gifts to Jesus, symbolizing selfless love. Similarly, Della and Jim sacrifice their most valued possessions to buy gifts for each other, embodying the same spirit. The title elevates their ordinary act to a timeless example of unconditional love and wisdom.

Question 9:
Explain how irony plays a role in The Gift of the Magi.
Answer:

The story uses situational irony:
1. Della sells her hair to buy Jim a chain for his watch, but Jim sells his watch to buy her combs.
2. Their gifts become useless, yet their love makes the sacrifices priceless. This irony underscores the message that the thought behind a gift holds greater value than the gift itself.

Question 10:
Describe the character of Della in The Gift of the Magi with examples from the text.
Answer:

Della is selfless and deeply loving:
1. She cries over saving only $1.87 for Jim’s gift, showing her devotion.
2. She sells her treasured hair without hesitation to buy him a present.
3. Her excitement to see Jim’s reaction reveals her emotional warmth. Her actions define her as a character who values love over materialism.

Question 11:
What literary devices does O. Henry use in The Gift of the Magi to enhance the narrative?
Answer:

O. Henry employs:
1. Irony: The gifts’ uselessness contrasts their emotional value.
2. Foreshadowing: Della’s hesitation about Jim’s reaction hints at his own sacrifice.
3. Simile: Comparing Della’s hair to a cascade of brown waters emphasizes its beauty. These devices deepen the story’s emotional impact.

Question 12:
How does the ending of The Gift of the Magi reinforce its moral lesson?
Answer:

The ending reveals the couple’s mutual sacrifices, leaving their gifts unused but their love strengthened. This reinforces the lesson that true generosity lies in giving from the heart, not in material value. The narrator’s comparison to the Magi cements this idea, showing their actions as wisdom rather than folly.

Long Answer (5 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 5-mark questions are descriptive and require detailed, structured answers with proper explanation and examples.

Question 1:
How does irony play a significant role in The Gift of the Magi? Explain with examples from the story.
Answer:
Introduction

Irony is a key literary device in The Gift of the Magi, highlighting the unexpected outcomes of the characters' actions.


Argument 1
  • Della sells her hair to buy Jim a chain for his watch, but Jim sells his watch to buy her combs.
  • This situational irony shows their love but also their sacrifices.

Argument 2

Our textbook shows how their gifts become useless, yet their love deepens, making the irony meaningful.


Conclusion

The irony emphasizes the theme of selfless love, making the story memorable.

Question 2:
Describe how sacrifice is a central theme in The Gift of the Magi. Support your answer with examples.
Answer:
Introduction

Sacrifice is a major theme in the story, as both characters give up their prized possessions.


Argument 1
  • Della sacrifices her long hair, her most valued feature, to buy a gift for Jim.
  • Jim sells his heirloom watch to buy combs for Della.

Argument 2

Our textbook highlights how their sacrifices reflect true love, as neither hesitates to give up what they cherish.


Conclusion

Their actions teach us that love often requires selflessness and sacrifice.

Question 3:
How does O. Henry use symbolism in The Gift of the Magi to convey deeper meanings?
Answer:
Introduction

Symbolism is used effectively in the story to represent love and sacrifice.


Argument 1
  • Della's hair symbolizes beauty and youth, which she sacrifices for Jim.
  • Jim's watch represents tradition and family heritage, which he gives up.

Argument 2

Our textbook explains how the gifts, though unused, symbolize their deep emotional connection.


Conclusion

The symbols reinforce the story's message about the true value of love.

Question 4:
Compare the love and generosity of Della and Jim in The Gift of the Magi. How are they similar?
Answer:
Introduction

Both Della and Jim show immense love and generosity through their actions.


Argument 1
  • Della sells her hair to buy a chain for Jim's watch, showing her devotion.
  • Jim sells his watch to buy combs for Della's hair, proving his love.

Argument 2

Our textbook shows how their sacrifices mirror each other, highlighting their equal commitment.


Conclusion

Their parallel actions demonstrate that true love is about giving, not receiving.

Question 5:
Explain the significance of the title The Gift of the Magi. How does it relate to the story's theme?
Answer:
Introduction

The title refers to the Magi, or wise men, who gave gifts to Jesus, symbolizing selfless giving.


Argument 1
  • Like the Magi, Della and Jim give valuable gifts, though theirs are impractical.
  • Their gifts represent pure love, just as the Magi's gifts symbolized devotion.

Argument 2

Our textbook compares their actions to the Magi, showing wisdom in their sacrifices.


Conclusion

The title reinforces the idea that the greatest gifts come from the heart.

Question 6:
Describe how sacrifice is the central theme of The Gift of the Magi. Support your answer with examples.
Answer:
Introduction

Sacrifice is the heart of the story, as Jim and Della give up their prized possessions.


Argument 1
  • Della sacrifices her beautiful hair, her most valued asset, to buy Jim a gift.
  • Jim sells his heirloom watch to buy combs for Della’s hair.

Argument 2
  • Their sacrifices highlight their deep love, as studied in our NCERT lesson.
  • The story compares them to the Magi, who gave precious gifts.

Conclusion

Their selflessness teaches us that love is greater than material wealth.

Question 7:
Explain how the setting of The Gift of the Magi contributes to the story’s emotional impact.
Answer:
Introduction

The humble setting of a small apartment during Christmas enhances the story’s emotional depth.


Argument 1
  • The poverty-stricken home reflects their financial struggles, making their sacrifices more touching.
  • Our textbook describes how the cold winter mirrors their hardships.

Argument 2
  • Christmas symbolizes giving, intensifying their acts of love.
  • The setting contrasts with their rich emotional bond.

Conclusion

The simple setting magnifies the story’s message of love over wealth.

Question 8:
Analyze the symbolism of the gifts exchanged in The Gift of the Magi.
Answer:
Introduction

The gifts in the story symbolize love, sacrifice, and the irony of their situation.


Argument 1
  • The combs represent Della’s beauty, which she sacrifices for Jim.
  • The watch chain symbolizes Jim’s pride, which he gives up for Della.

Argument 2
  • Our textbook shows these gifts become meaningless yet priceless.
  • They mirror the Magi’s gifts, which were wise but impractical.

Conclusion

The gifts highlight the couple’s unconditional love and selflessness.

Question 9:
How does O. Henry use foreshadowing in The Gift of the Magi? Provide examples.
Answer:
Introduction

O. Henry subtly uses foreshadowing to hint at the story’s ironic twist.


Argument 1
  • Della’s hesitation before selling her hair suggests future regret.
  • Jim’s reaction to Della’s short hair foreshadows his own sacrifice.

Argument 2
  • Our textbook notes the narrator’s mention of the Magi hints at the ending.
  • The gifts’ descriptions subtly reveal their eventual uselessness.

Conclusion

Foreshadowing deepens the story’s emotional and ironic impact.

Question 10:
How does irony play a significant role in The Gift of the Magi? Explain with examples.
Answer:
Introduction

Irony is a key literary device in The Gift of the Magi, highlighting the story's emotional depth. Our textbook shows how O. Henry uses irony to convey love and sacrifice.


Argument 1
  • Della sells her hair to buy Jim a chain for his watch, but Jim sells his watch to buy her combs.
  • Their gifts become useless, yet their love is priceless.

Argument 2

The title itself is ironic, as the Magi brought valuable gifts, while Della and Jim’s gifts are impractical but heartfelt.


Conclusion

Irony emphasizes the couple’s selflessness, making the story memorable and touching.

Question 11:
Describe the theme of sacrifice in The Gift of the Magi and its impact on the story.
Answer:
Introduction

Sacrifice is central to The Gift of the Magi, as Della and Jim give up their most prized possessions. Our textbook highlights how this theme deepens the story’s emotional resonance.


Argument 1
  • Della sacrifices her beautiful hair, her only treasure, to buy Jim a gift.
  • Jim sells his heirloom watch to buy combs for Della’s hair.

Argument 2

Their sacrifices show true love, as they prioritize each other’s happiness over material possessions.


Conclusion

The theme of sacrifice makes the story a timeless lesson in selflessness and love.

Question 12:
How does the setting of The Gift of the Magi contribute to its overall mood?
Answer:
Introduction

The setting of The Gift of the Magi reflects the couple’s poverty and love. Our textbook describes a modest apartment during Christmas, creating a bittersweet mood.


Argument 1
  • The small, shabby home shows their financial struggles, making their sacrifices more meaningful.
  • Christmas Eve adds urgency and warmth to their actions.

Argument 2

The setting contrasts with their rich emotions, emphasizing that love outweighs material wealth.


Conclusion

The humble setting enhances the story’s emotional impact, making their love shine brighter.

Question 13:
Analyze the character of Della in The Gift of the Magi and her role in the story.
Answer:
Introduction

Della is the protagonist of The Gift of the Magi, embodying love and sacrifice. Our textbook portrays her as a devoted wife willing to give up her pride for Jim.


Argument 1
  • Della’s decision to sell her hair shows her selflessness and deep love for Jim.
  • She carefully plans to buy a worthy gift, despite having little money.

Argument 2

Her emotional turmoil and joy reveal her sensitivity and strength, making her relatable.


Conclusion

Della’s character drives the story’s message of unconditional love and sacrifice.

Question 14:
Compare the gifts given by Della and Jim in The Gift of the Magi and their symbolic meaning.
Answer:
Introduction

Della and Jim’s gifts in The Gift of the Magi symbolize their love and sacrifice. Our textbook explains how their choices reflect their devotion.


Argument 1
  • Della buys a chain for Jim’s watch, representing her desire to complement his pride.
  • Jim buys combs for Della’s hair, showing his appreciation for her beauty.

Argument 2

Though the gifts become useless, they symbolize the couple’s willingness to sacrifice for each other.


Conclusion

The gifts highlight that true love values intention over material worth.

Question 15:
Explain how the theme of sacrifice is portrayed in The Gift of the Magi by O. Henry. Support your answer with examples from the text.
Answer:

The theme of sacrifice is central to The Gift of the Magi and is portrayed through the actions of both Della and Jim. The story highlights how true love often involves selfless giving, even at great personal cost.


Della sacrifices her most prized possession, her long, beautiful hair, to buy a platinum fob chain for Jim's watch. Similarly, Jim sells his gold watch, a family heirloom, to buy tortoise-shell combs for Della's hair. Their sacrifices are ironic because the gifts they buy for each other become useless due to their actions, but this irony underscores the depth of their love.


The story teaches that the value of a gift lies not in its material worth but in the love and sacrifice behind it. This aligns with the biblical Magi, who gave gifts to Jesus, symbolizing selfless devotion.

Question 16:
Analyze the significance of the title The Gift of the Magi in relation to the story's message. How does it connect to the characters' actions?
Answer:

The title The Gift of the Magi holds deep significance as it draws a parallel between the selfless gifts of Della and Jim and the gifts given by the Three Wise Men (Magi) to baby Jesus in the Bible. Both sets of gifts symbolize pure love and sacrifice.


In the story, Della and Jim give up their most treasured possessions to buy gifts for each other, mirroring the Magi's offerings of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Though their gifts become impractical, their actions reflect the true spirit of giving—putting the other's happiness above one's own.


The title reinforces the idea that the greatest gifts are those given with love and selflessness, not material value. It elevates Della and Jim's simple act of sacrifice to a timeless, almost spiritual level, making their story universally relatable.

Question 17:
Discuss the theme of sacrifice in the story The Gift of the Magi by O. Henry. How does this theme reflect the true spirit of love and giving?
Answer:

The theme of sacrifice is central to the story The Gift of the Magi. Both Della and Jim sacrifice their most prized possessions to buy gifts for each other, demonstrating their deep love and selflessness. Della sells her beautiful hair to buy Jim a chain for his watch, while Jim sells his watch to buy combs for Della's hair. Their sacrifices highlight the irony of their situation but also emphasize the true spirit of love and giving.

The story teaches that the value of a gift lies not in its material worth but in the love and sacrifice behind it. This mirrors the biblical story of the Magi, who gave gifts to Jesus, symbolizing selfless devotion. The characters' actions show that true love is about putting the other person's happiness above one's own, making their gifts priceless despite their practical uselessness.

Additionally, the theme reflects the idea that sacrifice strengthens relationships. Della and Jim's willingness to give up what they cherish most proves their commitment to each other, making their bond unbreakable. This message resonates with readers, reminding them that love is about generosity and thoughtfulness, not materialism.

Question 18:
Analyze the significance of the irony in The Gift of the Magi. How does it contribute to the overall message of the story?
Answer:

The irony in The Gift of the Magi plays a crucial role in conveying the story's deeper message about love and sacrifice. The situational irony arises when Della and Jim's gifts become useless because each has sacrificed the very thing the other's gift was intended for. Della buys a chain for Jim's watch, but he has sold his watch to buy her combs for her hair, which she has cut and sold.

This irony serves multiple purposes:

  • It highlights the futility of material possessions in the face of genuine love.
  • It underscores the couple's selflessness, as their actions are driven by pure intentions rather than practicality.
  • It creates a poignant moment that makes the reader reflect on the true meaning of giving.

Moreover, the irony aligns with the story's biblical allusion to the Magi, who gave gifts of great value but with symbolic meaning. Similarly, Della and Jim's gifts, though impractical, represent their profound love. The irony thus reinforces the idea that the thought behind a gift matters more than the gift itself, leaving a lasting impact on the reader.

Question 19:
Explain how the theme of sacrifice is portrayed in the story The Gift of the Magi by O. Henry. Support your answer with examples from the text.
Answer:

The theme of sacrifice is central to the story The Gift of the Magi. Both Della and Jim make significant sacrifices to express their love for each other, highlighting the depth of their relationship.

  • Della sells her most prized possession, her long, beautiful hair, to buy a platinum fob chain for Jim's watch.
  • Jim, unaware of Della's sacrifice, sells his gold watch to buy her a set of combs for her hair.

Their sacrifices, though seemingly ironic, showcase the selflessness and true meaning of love. The story emphasizes that the value of a gift lies not in its material worth but in the intention and emotion behind it.

Question 20:
Analyze the significance of the title The Gift of the Magi and how it relates to the story's message.
Answer:

The title The Gift of the Magi is a direct reference to the Biblical Magi (the Three Wise Men) who brought gifts to baby Jesus. The story draws a parallel between their gifts and those of Della and Jim.

  • The Magi's gifts were symbolic and priceless, just like Della and Jim's sacrifices.
  • Their gifts, though impractical, represent pure love and selflessness, mirroring the Magi's devotion.

The title reinforces the idea that the greatest gifts are those given out of love and sacrifice, not material value. It elevates Della and Jim's actions to a timeless and universal act of generosity, making the story deeply meaningful.

Question 21:
In The Gift of the Magi, how does O. Henry portray the theme of selfless love through the actions of Jim and Della? Explain with examples from the text.
Answer:

In The Gift of the Magi, O. Henry beautifully portrays the theme of selfless love through the actions of Jim and Della, who sacrifice their most prized possessions to buy gifts for each other. Their love transcends materialistic desires, highlighting the purity of their relationship.

For example, Della sells her long, beautiful hair, which she treasures deeply, to buy Jim a platinum fob chain for his watch. Similarly, Jim sells his gold watch, a family heirloom, to buy Della a set of combs she had always admired. Ironically, their gifts become useless because they sacrificed the very things the gifts were meant for. However, this irony underscores their unconditional love.

O. Henry uses this twist to emphasize that true love is not about the value of the gift but the selflessness behind it. The story teaches us that the greatest gifts are those given from the heart, even if they come at a personal cost.

Question 22:
In The Gift of the Magi, how does O. Henry portray the theme of selfless love through the actions of Jim and Della? Explain with examples from the story.
Answer:

In The Gift of the Magi, O. Henry beautifully portrays the theme of selfless love through the sacrifices made by Jim and Della for each other. Both characters give up their most prized possessions to buy gifts that would complement the other's treasures, only to realize their gifts are now unusable. Despite this irony, their love remains unwavering.

For example, Della sells her long, beautiful hair to buy a platinum fob chain for Jim's watch, while Jim sells his precious watch to buy ornamental combs for Della's hair. Their actions highlight pure, unconditional love, where material possessions hold no value compared to their relationship. The story emphasizes that true love is about giving without expecting anything in return.

Additionally, O. Henry uses the Magis biblical reference to compare Jim and Della to the wise men, suggesting that their love is the greatest gift of all. This reinforces the idea that selflessness is the essence of meaningful relationships.

Question 23:
Discuss the theme of sacrifice in the story The Gift of the Magi by O. Henry. How does the author highlight the depth of love between Jim and Della through their actions? (5 marks)
Answer:

The theme of sacrifice is central to the story The Gift of the Magi. Both Jim and Della give up their most prized possessions to buy gifts for each other, showcasing their selfless love. Della sells her beautiful long hair to buy Jim a chain for his pocket watch, while Jim sells his watch to buy combs for Della's hair. Their sacrifices are ironic yet deeply touching, as they render each other's gifts useless but prove their unconditional love.

The author highlights their love through irony and symbolism. The gifts symbolize their willingness to sacrifice for happiness, while the irony lies in the fact that their sacrifices cancel out the utility of the gifts. However, the true value lies in their love, which O. Henry compares to the Magi (wise men), suggesting that their gifts are the wisest and most precious of all.

This story teaches that true love is not about material possessions but about the thought and sacrifice behind actions. Jim and Della's story remains timeless because it celebrates the purity of love over materialism.

Question 24:
Discuss how the theme of sacrifice is portrayed in The Gift of the Magi by O. Henry. How does this theme contribute to the overall message of the story?
Answer:

The theme of sacrifice is central to The Gift of the Magi and is portrayed through the actions of both Della and Jim. Della sells her most prized possession, her long hair, to buy a chain for Jim's watch, while Jim sells his watch to buy combs for Della's hair. Their sacrifices highlight their deep love and selflessness for each other.

This theme contributes to the overall message of the story by emphasizing that true love is not measured by material possessions but by the willingness to give up something valuable for the happiness of another. The irony of their gifts being rendered useless adds a poignant touch, reinforcing that their love is priceless.

Additionally, O. Henry compares their sacrifices to those of the Magi (the wise men who brought gifts to baby Jesus), suggesting that their love is wise and pure. The story teaches that the greatest gifts come from the heart, not from their material worth.

Question 25:
Analyze the significance of the title The Gift of the Magi. How does it relate to the story's moral and the characters' actions?
Answer:

The title The Gift of the Magi holds deep significance as it draws a parallel between the gifts given by Della and Jim and those offered by the Magi (the three wise men) in the biblical story. The Magi brought precious gifts to honor Jesus, symbolizing wisdom, devotion, and sacrifice.

Similarly, Della and Jim's gifts, though seemingly impractical, represent their selflessness and love. The title suggests that their actions are as wise and meaningful as those of the Magi, even though their gifts are not materialistically valuable.

The moral of the story is reinforced by this comparison—true love and sacrifice are the greatest gifts one can offer. The title elevates the simple act of giving into something sacred, highlighting that the intention behind a gift matters more than the gift itself.

Case-based Questions (4 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 4-mark case-based questions assess analytical skills through real-life scenarios. Answers must be based on the case study provided.

Question 1:
In The Gift of the Magi, how do Della and Jim demonstrate sacrificial love? Explain with two examples from the story.
Answer:
Case Summary

Della and Jim sacrifice their most prized possessions to buy gifts for each other.

Analysis
  • Della sells her long hair to buy Jim a chain for his watch.
  • Jim sells his gold watch to buy combs for Della's hair.
Conclusion

Their actions show deep love, as both gifts become useless but their love remains priceless, just like the Magi's gifts.

Question 2:
How does the irony in The Gift of the Magi highlight the theme of selflessness? Support your answer with evidence.
Answer:
Case Summary

The story uses irony to show how Della and Jim's sacrifices make their gifts unusable.

Analysis
  • Della buys a chain for Jim's watch, but he sold it.
  • Jim buys combs for Della's hair, but she cut it.
Conclusion

The irony emphasizes their selflessness, as they prioritize each other's happiness over material possessions, mirroring the Magi's wisdom.

Question 3:
Why are Della and Jim compared to the Magi in the story? Relate their actions to the symbolism of the title.
Answer:
Case Summary

The Magi were wise gift-givers, and Della and Jim's actions reflect similar wisdom.

Analysis
  • They give sacrificial gifts, just like the Magi's offerings.
  • Their love is more valuable than material things, symbolizing true wisdom.
Conclusion

The title highlights their selfless love, making them 'wise' like the Magi, as they understand the real meaning of giving.

Question 4:
How does the setting of The Gift of the Magi reflect the couple's financial struggles? Provide two details from the text.
Answer:
Case Summary

The story is set in a modest home during Christmas, emphasizing their poverty.

Analysis
  • Della counts her saved money repeatedly, showing their limited funds.
  • Their home is described as furnished poorly, highlighting their struggles.
Conclusion

The setting reinforces their financial hardship, making their sacrifices even more meaningful, as they give despite having little.

Question 5:
In The Gift of the Magi, how do Della and Jim demonstrate selfless love? Explain with examples from the story.
Answer:
Case Summary

Della and Jim sacrifice their most prized possessions to buy gifts for each other. Della sells her hair to buy Jim a chain for his watch, while Jim sells his watch to buy combs for Della's hair.

Analysis
  • Their actions show deep love, as they prioritize each other's happiness over their own.
  • This mirrors the Magi's wisdom in giving meaningful gifts.
Conclusion

Their sacrifices highlight the true spirit of selfless love, as we studied in our textbook.

Question 6:
Why is the title The Gift of the Magi appropriate for the story? Relate it to the theme of sacrifice.
Answer:
Case Summary

The Magi were wise men who gave valuable gifts to Jesus. Similarly, Della and Jim give up their treasures out of love.

Analysis
  • Della's hair and Jim's watch symbolize their sacrifices, just like the Magi's gifts.
  • The title connects their actions to a timeless example of meaningful giving.
Conclusion

As our textbook shows, the title reflects the story's core message: true gifts come from the heart.

Question 7:
How does the irony in the story enhance its emotional impact? Provide two instances from the text.
Answer:
Case Summary

The story's irony lies in Della and Jim's gifts becoming useless due to their sacrifices.

Analysis
  • Della buys a chain for Jim's sold watch, while Jim buys combs for Della's cut hair.
  • This irony makes their love more touching, as their gifts symbolize devotion.
Conclusion

We studied how irony deepens the story's emotional resonance, making their love unforgettable.

Question 8:
Compare Della and Jim's financial struggles to the value of their love. How does the story convey this contrast?
Answer:
Case Summary

Della and Jim are poor, but their love is priceless. They sacrifice material possessions for each other.

Analysis
  • Their poverty highlights the richness of their relationship.
  • Their gifts, though unusable, prove love outweighs money.
Conclusion

As our textbook shows, the story teaches that true wealth lies in selfless love, not money.

Question 9:
In The Gift of the Magi, how do Della and Jim demonstrate selfless love? Explain with two examples from the story.
Answer:
Case Summary

Della and Jim sacrifice their most prized possessions to buy gifts for each other, showing deep love.

Analysis
  • Della sells her hair to buy Jim a chain for his watch.
  • Jim sells his watch to buy combs for Della's hair.
Conclusion

Their actions reflect selflessness, as they prioritize each other's happiness over their own.

Question 10:
How does the irony in The Gift of the Magi highlight the theme of sacrifice? Provide two instances.
Answer:
Case Summary

The story uses irony to emphasize the couple's sacrifices, making their love more poignant.

Analysis
  • Della buys a chain for Jim's sold watch.
  • Jim buys combs for Della's cut hair.
Conclusion

The irony underscores their mutual sacrifice, deepening the story's emotional impact.

Question 11:
Why are Della and Jim compared to the Magi in the story? Relate it to their actions.
Answer:
Case Summary

The Magi were wise gift-givers, and Della and Jim's gifts symbolize wisdom and love.

Analysis
  • They give gifts sacrificially, like the Magi.
  • Their gifts are meaningful despite being unusable.
Conclusion

The comparison highlights their selfless wisdom, making them 'Magi' in their own way.

Question 12:
How does the setting of Christmas enhance the story's message about love and sacrifice?
Answer:
Case Summary

Christmas, a time of giving, amplifies the couple's sacrifices for each other.

Analysis
  • Gifts are central to Christmas, mirroring their love.
  • The festive mood contrasts their poverty, emphasizing sacrifice.
Conclusion

The setting deepens the story's emotional resonance, tying love to the spirit of Christmas.

Question 13:

Read the following extract and answer the question that follows:

"Della finished her cry and attended to her cheeks with the powder rag. She stood by the window and looked out dully at a gray cat walking a gray fence in a gray backyard."

Question: How does the description of the "gray cat walking a gray fence in a gray backyard" reflect Della's emotional state? Explain in detail, linking it to the theme of sacrifice in the story.

Answer:

The description of the "gray cat walking a gray fence in a gray backyard" mirrors Della's emotional state of sadness and monotony. The repetition of the word "gray" emphasizes her dull and gloomy mood after realizing she has very little money to buy a gift for Jim.


This imagery connects to the theme of sacrifice in The Gift of the Magi because Della's sadness stems from her inability to give Jim a worthy gift, despite her deep love for him. Her emotional struggle highlights the lengths to which she is willing to go to make him happy, foreshadowing her eventual sacrifice of her hair.


Additionally, the "gray" surroundings symbolize the harsh reality of their financial struggles, making their sacrifices even more meaningful. The contrast between the dull setting and their bright love underscores the story's message that true gift-giving comes from the heart, not material wealth.

Question 14:

Read the following extract and answer the question that follows:

"The magi, as you know, were wise men—wonderfully wise men—who brought gifts to the Babe in the manger. They invented the art of giving Christmas presents."

Question: Why does the narrator compare Della and Jim to the "magi"? Analyze how their actions align with the qualities of the magi, and explain the significance of this comparison in the story.

Answer:

The narrator compares Della and Jim to the "magi" because, like the wise men, they demonstrate selfless love and wisdom through their sacrifices. The magi gave precious gifts to honor Jesus, while Della and Jim give up their most valued possessions to express their love for each other.


Their actions align with the magi's qualities in the following ways:

  • Wisdom: They understand that love is more valuable than material possessions.
  • Sacrifice: Della sells her hair, and Jim sells his watch, showing their willingness to give up what they cherish most.
  • Thoughtfulness: Their gifts are chosen with deep care, even if they seem impractical.

The significance of this comparison lies in the story's message: true gift-giving is about the "spirit of sacrifice" and love, not the monetary value of the gift. By calling them "the magi", the narrator elevates their simple acts of love to a timeless and universal example of generosity.

Question 15:

Read the following passage from The Gift of the Magi and answer the question below:

"Della finished her cry and attended to her cheeks with the powder rag. She stood by the window and looked out dully at a gray cat walking a gray fence in a gray backyard."

Question: How does the description of the setting reflect Della's emotional state? Explain with reference to the text.

Answer:

The description of the setting mirrors Della's emotional state by using imagery and symbolism. The repeated use of the word "gray" creates a dull and lifeless atmosphere, which parallels Della's feelings of sadness and despair after realizing she cannot afford a worthy gift for Jim. The "gray cat" and "gray fence" symbolize her bleak outlook at that moment.

Additionally, the phrase "looked out dully" emphasizes her emotional numbness, showing how her financial struggles have drained her joy. This connection between the external environment and her internal state is a classic example of pathetic fallacy, where nature reflects human emotions.

Question 16:

In The Gift of the Magi, Della sells her hair to buy a gift for Jim, while Jim sells his watch to buy combs for Della. Question: How does this irony contribute to the theme of the story? Provide a detailed analysis.

Answer:

The situational irony in the story highlights the central theme of selfless love and sacrifice. Both characters give up their most prized possessions to buy gifts for each other, only to realize their gifts are now useless. However, this irony reinforces the deeper message that true love is not about material value but the thought and sacrifice behind it.

The author, O. Henry, uses this twist to show that Della and Jim are like the "Magi" (wise men), who gave precious gifts out of love. The irony makes their actions even more meaningful, as it proves their love transcends practicality. This aligns with the story's moral: the greatest gifts are those given with pure intentions, regardless of their utility.

Question 17:
Read the following excerpt from The Gift of the Magi:

'Della finished her cry and attended to her cheeks with the powder rag. She stood by the window and looked out dully at a gray cat walking a gray fence in a gray backyard.'

How does the author use the imagery of the 'gray cat walking a gray fence in a gray backyard' to reflect Della's emotional state?
Answer:

The author uses the imagery of the gray cat, gray fence, and gray backyard to mirror Della's emotional state of sadness and despair. The repetition of the word gray creates a dull and monotonous atmosphere, symbolizing her feelings of hopelessness after realizing she doesn't have enough money to buy a gift for Jim. Gray is often associated with gloom and lack of vibrancy, which aligns with Della's mood at that moment.

Additionally, the imagery emphasizes her sense of isolation and the bleakness of her situation. The cat's aimless wandering on the fence parallels Della's own uncertainty about how to solve her problem. This use of imagery helps the reader connect deeply with Della's emotional struggle.

Question 18:
In The Gift of the Magi, Della sells her hair to buy a gift for Jim, while Jim sells his watch to buy combs for Della. Analyze how this irony contributes to the theme of the story.
Answer:

The irony in the story lies in the fact that both Della and Jim sacrifice their most prized possessions to buy gifts for each other, only to find that the gifts are now useless. Della sells her hair to buy a chain for Jim's watch, while Jim sells his watch to buy combs for Della's hair. This twist highlights the theme of selfless love and the true meaning of giving.

The irony deepens the emotional impact of the story by showing that their love and sacrifices are more valuable than the gifts themselves. It teaches the reader that the intention behind a gift matters more than its material worth. The Magi, or wise men, in the title symbolize the wisdom of giving from the heart, which Della and Jim embody despite their ironic situation.

Question 19:
Read the following extract from The Gift of the Magi and answer the question that follows:

'Della finished her cry and attended to her cheeks with the powder rag. She stood by the window and looked out dully at a gray cat walking a gray fence in a gray backyard.'

How does the description of the setting reflect Della's emotional state?
Answer:

The description of the setting in the extract mirrors Della's emotional state through the use of pathetic fallacy. The repeated use of the word 'gray' to describe the cat, fence, and backyard creates a dull and lifeless atmosphere, which parallels Della's feelings of sadness and despair after realizing she doesn't have enough money to buy a gift for Jim. The lack of color symbolizes her hopelessness and the monotony of her situation.

Additionally, the phrase 'looked out dully' emphasizes her emotional numbness, further highlighting her internal struggle. This technique effectively connects the external environment with Della's inner turmoil, making her emotions more relatable to the reader.

Question 20:
In The Gift of the Magi, both Della and Jim sacrifice their most prized possessions to buy gifts for each other. Analyze how their actions demonstrate the theme of selfless love in the story.
Answer:

Della and Jim's actions are a powerful representation of selfless love because they prioritize each other's happiness over their own. Della sells her beautiful hair, her most valued possession, to buy a chain for Jim's watch, while Jim sells his watch to buy combs for Della's hair. Their sacrifices are ironic yet deeply meaningful, as they unknowingly render each other's gifts useless.

  • Their love is unconditional, as they don't hesitate to give up what they cherish most.
  • The story highlights that the true value of their gifts lies in the intention and love behind them, not their material worth.

This theme resonates with the biblical Magi, who gave gifts out of pure devotion, reinforcing the idea that selfless love is the greatest gift of all.

Question 21:
Read the following excerpt from The Gift of the Magi:
'Della finished her cry and attended to her cheeks with the powder rag. She stood by the window and looked out dully at a gray cat walking a gray fence in a gray backyard.'
How does the repetition of the word 'gray' contribute to the mood of the story? Explain with reference to the context.
Answer:

The repetition of the word 'gray' in the excerpt creates a melancholic and dull mood, reflecting Della's emotional state after selling her hair to buy a gift for Jim. The color gray symbolizes monotony, sadness, and lack of hope, mirroring Della's feelings of despair and sacrifice. The imagery of the 'gray cat,' 'gray fence,' and 'gray backyard' further emphasizes the bleakness of her situation, highlighting the emotional weight of her decision. This literary device helps the reader connect with Della's inner turmoil and the theme of selfless love in the story.

Question 22:
In The Gift of the Magi, both Della and Jim sacrifice their most prized possessions to buy gifts for each other. How does this act of sacrifice reflect the central theme of the story? Support your answer with textual evidence.
Answer:

The sacrifices made by Della and Jim reflect the central theme of selfless love and the true meaning of giving. Della sells her beautiful hair to buy a chain for Jim's watch, while Jim sells his watch to buy combs for Della's hair. Their actions show that love is not about material possessions but about the thought and sacrifice behind the gesture. The narrator refers to them as the 'wisest' gift-givers, comparing them to the Magi, who gave gifts with deep meaning. This highlights the idea that the value of a gift lies in the love and sacrifice it represents, not its monetary worth.

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