In the space below, write a 500-word essay describing the theme of o. henry’s “the gift of the magi.” explain how the author uses irony as an essential tool in developing this theme.

o'henry used irony in "the gift of the magi". this tool was essential to developing the story's theme by showing that the couple bought gifts for each other that they could not actually use at the moment. the author used this to show that people of the society should value the things they've received from others, because you may never know if they sacrificed there most nicest possession to get the gift for the other person.

Which sentence best describes the biased way the author approaches this topic? boars = bacon. and gammon, chops, sausages and feel your salivary glands begin to tingle at the thought of your teeth sinking into that first tender mouthful, and you will be half way towards a sensible attitude towards these creatures. they’re pigs. porkers, hogs, swine, if you will. they dig up people’s gardens, occasionally attack their dogs, spread disease and generally cause a nuisance. in culinary terms, they’re no different to cows or sheep or any of the other feeble-minded, four-legged frolickers which, in various pasties, pies and other assorted pastry cases, end up on our steaming plates on a daily basis. low in fat but high in deliciousness, by eating a wild boar you aren’t depriving poor little peppa and george of a long-lost cousin, but rather reaffirming your god-given position at the top of the food chain. if a boar could eat you it would, thus i say we should return the favour with interest. so say no to the misty-eyed squealers and man up, tuck in and pig out!

Which is easier to identify direct or indirect characterization? why

Brutus: but as he was ambitious, i slew him. . who is here so base that would be a bondman? if any, speak, for him have i offended. who is here so rude that would not be a roman? if any, speak, for him have i offended. who is here so vile that will not love his country? if any, speak, for him have i offended. i pause for a reply. which rhetorical device does brutus use in this excerpt?