'The Gift of the Magi' Discussion Questions: · What is important about the title? Does it suggest that the story has a religious lesson, or just that Christmas will figure into the plot somehow?

· What are some central ideas or themes of the story?

· What are some conflicts in the story? Are they internal or external?

· List a metaphor or comparison in the story. Explain it.

· Why do we spend so much time getting to know Della in the story, while Jim is introduced only near the very end? Is her perspective more or less important than his?

· What are some symbols in "The Gift of the Magi?" Is it telling that Jim gives up something material that can't be reclaimed while Della gives up something that will regrow?

· Relate a symbol to a central idea or theme of the story.

· Does the story end the way you expected? Did you find it endearing that the two gave up their possessions for each other, or were you exasperated that neither could enjoy the other's gift?

· How essential is the setting, both the time and place, to the story? Could the story have taken place anywhere else?

Understanding 'The Gift of the Magi':

· Describe a time when you picked out the perfect gift for someone or someone picked out the perfect gift for you. Why was it perfect?

· Describe a time when a gift didn't work out. What could have made the situation different? How was the situation handled?

· Describe an ironic incident in your own life. What was expected to happen, and why was the actual event ironic?