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The Queen of Sheba and King Solomon were known for their great wealth in ancient times. Consider the following excerpt from the story. Why does the author contrast the wealth and pride of these two couples? "Had the Queen of Sheba lived in the flat across the airshaft, Della would have let her hair hang out the window some day to dry just to depreciate Her Majesty's jewels and gifts. Had King Solomon been the janitor, with all his treasures piled up in the basement, Jim would have pulled out his watch every time he passed, just to see [the king] pluck at his beard from envy."



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e3van22

The author contrasts the wealth and pride of the Queen of Sheba and King Solomon with the humble circumstances of Della and Jim to emphasize the theme of perspective and appreciation for what one has. Della and Jim are portrayed as ordinary, financially struggling individuals who would have taken pleasure in diminishing the wealth and possessions of the Queen and King, even if they were neighbors. This highlights the idea that material wealth does not necessarily bring happiness or fulfillment. Instead, the author suggests that true value lies in the love and sacrifices made by Della and Jim for each other, as seen in the story "The Gift of the Magi" by O. Henry.

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