“THE Gift of the Magi”

1. “THE Gift of the Magi” Written By: O. Henry Page 100

2. Who is O.Henry? • O.Henry is a “pen name” • Real name is William Sydney Porter • Born in Greensboro, NC • Fled to Central America because he was accused of embezzling money. He returned to visit his dying wife and was put in prison • He wrote all of his best short stories in prison

3. IRONY • Contrast between what is expected to happen and what actually happens in the story There are three types…

4. #1 Situational Irony • When a character or a reader expects one thing to happen but something else happens instead

5. #2 Verbal Irony • When what is said is the opposite of what is meant • A.K.A. SARCASM!!! Example: Mother walks into the TV room and discovers her 11-year-old son watching South Park instead of doing his homework. She says, “Don’t let me tempt you from your duties, kiddo, but when you’re finished with your serious studies there, maybe we could take some time out for recreation and do a little math homework.”

6. #3 Dramatic Irony • When a character in the story doesn’t know what the audience knows Example: The “silly” blonde walking down into the basement after she hears a mysterious noise. Example: Movie AVATAR

7. Background • It’s customary to give gifts on holidays. • In the “early days” people gave food, jewelry, and candles. • The idea of gift-giving at Christmas originated with the 3 wise men (A.K.A. “magi”) giving gifts to Jesus How does gift giving play a role in this story? We’ll find out…

8. Early 20th century – 1900?

9. Graph results- Multiple Intelligences