Question

Theme in "The Gift of the Magi" - 

"...And here I have lamely related to you the uneventful chronicle of two foolish children in a flat who most unwisely sacrificed for each other the greatest treasures of their house. But, in a last word to the wise of these days let it be said that of all who give gifts these two were the wisest. Of all who give and receive gifts, such as they are wisest. Everywhere they are wisest. They are the Magi..." 

In two to three sentences, explain how the story supports the theme "Those who sacrifice for each other are the wisest.”

Answer 1

This story supports the theme, "Those who sacrifice for each other are the wisest," because the characters found love through their sacrifice. Through giving away their most worldly precious item, they found an even more extraordinary love within their partner. 

Hope that helps! 

Answer 2

Della and Jim both make sacrifices for each other because they care about each other. Della sacrifices her hair, and Jim sacrifices his watch. Even though their sacrifices make them unable to use each other's presents, they realize how important their love is. This makes them wise, as the theme suggests.