(TUM) Thematic Unit: Memories - Short Stories: "The Gift of the Magi" Lesson

Thematic Unit: Memories - Short Stories: "The Gift of the Magi" Lesson 

"The Gift of the Magi"

The Background

Gift Image "The Gift of the Magi" is a short story written by O. Henry (a pen name for William Sydney Porter), about a young married couple and how they deal with the challenge of buying secret Christmas gifts for each other with very little money. As a sentimental story with a moral lesson about gift-giving, it has been a popular one for adaptation, especially for presentation at Christmas time.

The Allusion

An allusion is a figure of speech that makes a reference to, or a representation of people, places, events, literary work, myths, or works of art, either directly or by implication. The reference can be direct or may be inferred, and can broaden the reader's understanding.

Example:

The title "Lamb to the Slaughter" alludes towards the prophecy in Isaiah 53 - "He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before its shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth."

 

The Story

Now, read O. Henry's "The Gift of the Magi". As you read, pay attention to the use of allusion in the story. Does O. Henry use any clear allusions? 

"The Gift of the Magi" Text Link Links to an external site.

"The Gift of the Magi" Audio Link 

 

 

After reading the Gift of the Maji, review by answering the following questions.

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