“Gift of the Magi” or “The Highwayman.”

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Choose one of our two readings for this week, “Gift of the Magi” or “The Highwayman.”

In a 1-page response to the text, identify each part of the plot diagram for the reading you’ve selected. Write 1 – 2 sentences for each part of the plot diagram, and then write a paragraph for the reflection at the end.

Exposition: Identify and describe the key elements of the exposition in the text. How do the authors introduce the setting, characters, and initial conflict or situation?
Rising Action: Identify at least one significant event or action that contributes to the rising action in the text. How does this event build tension, suspense, or develop the central conflict?
Climax: Identify the climax in the text. What event or revelation marks the turning point in the story? How does the climax affect the main characters and their goals?
Falling Action: Discuss the falling action in the text. How does the author resolve or address the conflicts introduced in the rising action? Are there any unexpected twists or revelations during this phase?
Resolution: Analyze the resolution in the text. How are loose ends tied up, and are all conflicts resolved? Does the resolution provide a sense of closure or leave room for interpretation?
Personal Response: Share your personal thoughts and reflections on the plot of each text. Did you find the plot engaging, predictable, or surprising? Did it evoke any emotional responses or connect with your own experiences? Explain your reactions and provide examples from the texts to support your response.

 

Sample Solution

Plot Analysis of “The Gift of the Magi”

O. Henry’s “The Gift of the Magi” is a tale of love and sacrifice set in the midst of poverty. The story centers on Della and Jim, a young couple deeply in love but struggling to make ends meet.

Exposition

The story opens with a description of Della and Jim’s humble apartment, revealing their limited financial means. Della, with only $1.87 to her name, is determined to find a Christmas gift for her husband, Jim. Despite their poverty, their love for each other shines through, providing a warm contrast to their surroundings.

Rising Action

Della’s meager savings force her to make a difficult decision – she sells her prized hair, her most valuable possession, to afford Jim a prized fob chain for his heirloom pocket watch. Meanwhile, Jim, unaware of Della’s sacrifice, sells his own treasured possession, his prized watch, to purchase Della a set of combs for her beautiful hair.

Climax

On Christmas morning, Della and Jim exchange their gifts, each unaware of the other’s sacrifice. Initially disappointed by the loss of their most cherished possessions, they soon realize the true significance of their gifts – the depth of their love and willingness to give for the other.

Falling Action

Della and Jim laugh together, embracing the irony and the depth of their love. They recognize that their material possessions have taken a backseat to their enduring bond.

Resolution

The story concludes with a reflection on the true meaning of Christmas – the spirit of giving and the joy of love. Della and Jim’s sacrifices serve as a testament to their selfless love, demonstrating that true gifts come from the heart, not from material possessions.

Personal Response

“The Gift of the Magi” is a poignant tale that evokes a deep sense of empathy and admiration for Della and Jim. Their story resonates with the universal themes of love, sacrifice, and the true meaning of gift-giving. The story’s unexpected climax and heartwarming resolution leave a lasting impression, reminding us that the greatest gifts are often the ones that come from the heart.

O. Henry’s masterful storytelling captures the essence of Christmas spirit, emphasizing the importance of love and selflessness over material possessions. The story’s timeless message continues to inspire readers, reminding us of the true essence of the holiday season.

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