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Plot Diagram: The Gift of the Magi
Graphic Organizer
Grade 6
English
Plot Diagram: The Gift of the Magi
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Date:
Plot Diagram: The Gift of the MagiMap the narrative arc of O. Henry's classic story about sacrifice and love.
1. ExpositionSetting and characters.Della and Jim are a young, deeply-in-love couple living in a very poor apartment. It is Christmas Eve, and Della is upset because she only has $1.87 to buy a gift for her husband. She wants to find something truly special to show Jim how much she cares for him.
2. Rising ActionBuilding tension.Della worries she cannot afford a nice present. The couple only owns two treasures: Jim's gold pocket watch and Della's beautiful, long hair. Della realizes she must sacrifice her own treasure to buy something worthy of Jim's watch.
3. ClimaxThe turning point.Della sells her hair for $20 and buys a platinum chain for Jim's watch. Ironically, she gives up her own beauty to honor the treasure he already owns. This turning point shows her willingness to give up everything for her husband.
4. Falling ActionEvents after the peak.When Jim arrives home, he is shocked to see Della's short hair. He reveals that he sold his gold watch to buy her a set of expensive combs. The irony is now complete because both of their precious gifts are now completely useless.
5. ResolutionThe story's end.Even though their gifts cannot be used, the couple realizes their love is the most important thing. The story ends by saying that their sacrifice makes them the wisest of all gift-givers. They are the true "Magi" because they understand giving.