Can you provide a summary and analysis of the story 'The Last Leaf'?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for a summary or analysis of the story 'The Last Leaf,' focusing on key themes such as sacrifice and hope as illustrated by the actions of the characters Behrman, Johny, and Sue.
Answer
An old artist saves Johnsy's life by painting a leaf, inspiring hope; he dies of pneumonia.
The story 'The Last Leaf' by O. Henry is about two artists, Sue and Johnsy, who live in Greenwich Village. Johnsy falls ill with pneumonia and loses hope, linking her fate to an ivy leaf. An old artist, Behrman, fulfills his dream of painting a masterpiece by painting a realistic last leaf to inspire Johnsy. He sacrifices his life doing so, contracting pneumonia and dying, but his act of selflessness restores Johnsy's will to live.
Answer for screen readers
The story 'The Last Leaf' by O. Henry is about two artists, Sue and Johnsy, who live in Greenwich Village. Johnsy falls ill with pneumonia and loses hope, linking her fate to an ivy leaf. An old artist, Behrman, fulfills his dream of painting a masterpiece by painting a realistic last leaf to inspire Johnsy. He sacrifices his life doing so, contracting pneumonia and dying, but his act of selflessness restores Johnsy's will to live.
More Information
'The Last Leaf' teaches a lesson on hope and the power of art, highlighting Behrman's ultimate sacrifice.
Tips
A common mistake is misinterpreting the leaf as real; it's Behrman's painted illusion.
Sources
- A Summary and Analysis of O. Henry's 'The Last Leaf' - interestingliterature.com
- The Last Leaf: Full Story Analysis | SparkNotes - sparknotes.com
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