Final answer:
In 'The Gift of the Magi,' O. Henry uses the Christmas gift-giving tradition to illustrate the couple's sacrificial love and to emphasize the lasting value of emotional connections over material ones.
Step-by-step explanation:
O. Henry establishes tradition as a major idea in The Gift of the Magi through the portrayal of the main characters, Jim and Della, who engage in the traditional act of giving gifts during Christmas. In doing so, they each sacrifice their most cherished possessions. He highlights the power of love and the spirit of giving, which are timeless and traditional values in society. The story itself serves as a representation of holiday traditions, emphasizing how these customs can transcend material worth and signify deeper emotional bonds.