Critical Thinking In their selections in this unit, O. Henry and Guy de Maupassant both employ

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irony as a key literary device. In O. Henry's short story "The Gift of the Magi," the couple each sacrifice their most prized possession to buy a gift for the other, only to realize that their gifts are now useless. This ironic twist emphasizes the theme of sacrifice and the true value of love and selflessness.

Similarly, in Guy de Maupassant's short story "The Necklace," the protagonist Mathilde Loisel borrows a necklace to attend a high society event but loses it, leading her to work for years to repay the debt. The irony of the situation lies in the fact that the necklace was actually fake, highlighting the superficiality and vanity of society.

By using irony, both authors challenge the reader to think critically about the themes of sacrifice, materialism, and societal expectations. They encourage readers to look beyond the surface and consider the deeper meanings and implications of their stories. Additionally, the use of irony adds complexity and depth to the narratives, making them more engaging and thought-provoking.

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