Question

Read this sentence about Della from "The Gift of the Magi."

Once she faltered for a minute and stood still while a tear or two splashed on the worn red carpet.

What theme do Della’s actions in this sentence best suggest?

Sacrifice is more important than true love.
Sacrifice for a loved one is not always easy.
Sacrifice is part of a life lived to the very fullest

Answer 1

"Sacrifice for a loved one is not always easy."

Her faltering and tears show that giving up something she treasures (her hair) is painful — it’s an act of love, but a difficult one.