Comparative Analysis: The Necklace and The Gift of the Magi

Analysis, Pages 3 (750 words)

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Introduction

The protagonists in "The Necklace" and "The Gift of the Magi" differ significantly in their personalities, attitudes, and the choices they make. In Guy De Maupassant's "The Necklace," Mathilde Loisel embodies ungratefulness and a relentless pursuit of wealth, while in O. Henry's "The Gift of the Magi," Della Young is characterized by compassion and selflessness. This essay explores the striking differences between Mathilde and Della, delving into their personalities, socioeconomic statuses, and relationships with their husbands.

Personality Contrasts: Mathilde vs.

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Della

Mathilde Loisel, the central character in "The Necklace," epitomizes middle-class discontent. Her ungrateful nature becomes apparent when she borrows jewelry from her friend, Madame Forestier, and rudely asks, "Haven’t you anything else?" (Maupassant, ¶39). In stark contrast, Della Young from "The Gift of the Magi" is portrayed as compassionate and hardworking. Della sacrifices her most prized possession, her hair, to buy a present for her husband, Jim. This striking divergence in personalities sets the tone for their respective journeys.

While Mathilde's selfishness is evident in her pursuit of societal admiration and riches, Della's selflessness is demonstrated through her sacrificial act of selling her hair. The stark contrast in their characters serves as a lens through which the narratives explore themes of gratitude, compassion, and personal sacrifice.

Socioeconomic Status: A Tale of Changing Fortunes

The socioeconomic backgrounds of Mathilde Loisel and Della Young also play a crucial role in shaping their narratives. In the beginning of "The Necklace," Mathilde and her husband enjoy a relatively comfortable life, but their fortunes take a dramatic turn for the worse.

A decade of paying off debts leaves them in dire poverty. On the contrary, Della Young starts with modest means, gathering a meager $1.87 for a Christmas present. Despite their financial challenges, Della finds contentment in life, showcasing a stark contrast to Mathilde's unrelenting desire for material wealth.

The socioeconomic disparities between the two characters contribute to the overall themes of the stories. Mathilde's fall from a modest middle-class existence to abject poverty serves as a cautionary tale, emphasizing the consequences of unchecked desires and the pursuit of societal status. In contrast, Della's humble beginnings underscore the narrative's focus on the value of love and selflessness over material possessions.

Marital Relationships: Gratitude vs. Resentment

Another significant difference between Mathilde and Della lies in their attitudes towards their husbands. Della's deep love for Jim is evident in her thoughtful consideration when selecting a present for him. She thinks of something "fine and rare and sterling--something just a little bit near to being worthy of the honor of being owned by Jim" (Henry, ¶6). Della's genuine affection for her husband contrasts sharply with Mathilde's resentment towards her spouse.

Mathilde perceives her marriage as a compromise, stating that she "let herself be married off to a little clerk in the Ministry of Education" (Maupassant, ¶1). The lack of gratitude towards her husband is further highlighted when he procures tickets for a party, and later spends money on a dress for her. In contrast, Della expresses gratitude even for a simple hairpin and values the sentimental meaning behind the gifts exchanged with Jim.

Ironic Endings: Cynicism vs. Comicality

The endings of both stories carry ironic twists. In "The Necklace," Mathilde and her husband spend years paying off a debt for a necklace they believed was worth thirty-six thousand francs, only to discover it was valued at a mere five hundred. The irony here is cynical, underscoring the consequences of Mathilde's unchecked desires.

On the other hand, "The Gift of the Magi" concludes with a more comical irony. Della sacrifices her hair to buy Jim a chain for his pocket watch, while Jim sells his watch to buy Della a lavish pin for her hair. The irony lies in the mutual sacrifice for gifts that are rendered useless by the sacrifices made by each partner. Despite this, the Young couple finds joy in their love and companionship, transcending the material aspects of their gifts.

Conclusion: Choices and Reflections

In conclusion, the comparison between Mathilde Loisel in "The Necklace" and Della Young in "The Gift of the Magi" reveals profound differences in their personalities, socioeconomic statuses, and attitudes towards their husbands. The stories provide insightful reflections on the consequences of unchecked desires, the value of selflessness, and the enduring power of love.

Through the lens of these two literary works, readers are prompted to contemplate the choices individuals make in their pursuit of happiness, the impact of societal expectations on personal contentment, and the timeless themes of gratitude and sacrifice that resonate across cultures and time periods.