Symbolism In The Gift Of The Magi

In the short story, “The Gift of the Magi”, O. Henry uses literary devices to show us that love and sacrifice are powerful human emotions, that cannot be outstripped by material possessions. In the story, the author uses many quotes to express symbolism to help reiterate the theme, one of the quotes is, “of all who give and receive gifts, such as they are the wisest. Everywhere they are the wisest. They are the Magi” (O Henry 185-186). This quote applies to the theme, because it helps to relate their decision (to sacrifice and give) as the wisest people, as it shows that their selfless and that they’re merrily sacrificing possessions they are fond of for each other, whom they love. The author uses many literary devices to emphasise the theme,