Task 1: Short Story Analysis: Analyze the two short stories "The Tell-Tale Heart" by Edgar
Allan Poe and "The Gift of the Magi" by O. Henry. Use the following guidelines:
1. Summarize the plot of each story.
2. Identify and discuss the main characters, their traits, and motivations.
3. Analyze the theme(s) of each story. What message do you think the author is trying to
convey?
4. Highlight any literary devices used in each story (e.g., symbolism, foreshadowing, irony)
and explain their significance.
5. Compare and contrast the two stories. How are they similar or different in terms of plot,
characters, themes, and style?

This detailed answer compares and analyzes 'The Tell-Tale Heart' by Edgar Allan Poe and 'The Gift of the Magi' by O. Henry in terms of plot, characters, themes, and literary devices.

Explanation:

Analysis of 'The Tell-Tale Heart' by Edgar Allan Poe and 'The Gift of the Magi' by O. Henry:

Plot Summary: 'The Tell-Tale Heart' follows a narrator who is disturbed by an old man's eye and decides to kill him, while 'The Gift of the Magi' portrays a couple who sacrifice their most prized possessions for each other.
Main Characters: In 'The Tell-Tale Heart', the narrator showcases paranoia and obsession, contrasting with the loving and sacrificial nature of Jim and Della in 'The Gift of the Magi.'
Themes: Poe's story explores guilt and madness, whereas O. Henry's story emphasizes love and selflessness.
Literary Devices: 'The Tell-Tale Heart' uses symbolism like the old man's eye to represent the narrator's guilt, while 'The Gift of the Magi' employs irony through the couple's sacrificial gifts.
Comparison: While both stories involve sacrifice, 'The Tell-Tale Heart' delves into darker themes of obsession and guilt, whereas 'The Gift of the Magi' focuses on the purity of love and selflessness.

Learn more about Short Story Analysis here:

https://brainly.com/question/40503033