Abstract

O. Henry is one of the most famous literature writers in America. His novels have a unique plot and the ending is unexpected and reasonable. The Gift of Magi is his masterpiece. It eulogizes human nature, expressing a kind of strong humanity. This dissertation    introduces the contents of the novel and the author’s life. From his personal experience and social background, O. Henry explores the essence of Humanism and the themes of Humanism. And then it is the expression of Humanism from three aspects. The first one is purity and loyalty in love. Jim and Della’s love has nothing to do with money. The second one is self-sacrifice and selfless dedication. Della and her husband all give up their valuable things, only to buy a good gift to each other. Della sells her long and grey hair while Jim sells his ancestral golden watch. The third one is small people’s spiritual world pursuit. This poor couple has a positive attitude towards life and they enjoy the happiness of spiritual world. Through the whole dissertation, we can know the priceless thing is true love in the world.

Keywords: Humanism; love; dedication; purity

Contents

Abstract

摘要

1.Introduction1

1.1 Introduction to the Novel2

1.2 introduction to O. Henry.4

2.  Introduction to Humanism 5

2.1 The Essence of Humanism.6

2.2 The Themes of Humanism..7

3.  Humanism in The Gift of Magi.8

3.1 Purity and Loyalty in Love8

3.2 Self-sacrifice and Selfless Dedication9

3.3Small People’s Spiritual World Pursuit.11 

4. Conclusion12

References.14