What is the meaning of Retrieved Reformation?

What is the meaning of Retrieved Reformation?

“A Retrieved Reformation” is a story about a criminal, Jimmy Valentine, who changes (or reforms) his life. Before reading the story, think about the different themes that make the story easier to read and to understand. This activity will help you to think about some of the main themes in “A Retrieved Reformation”.

What is the theme of O Henry’s short story A Retrieved Reformation?

The theme of O. Henry’s “A Retrieved Reformation” can be stated in either of two old adages. One is “Crime does not pay.” The other is “Honesty is the best policy.” O. Henry served several years in a state prison for embezzlement.

What is the main conflict in A Retrieved Reformation?

What is the internal conflict? Valentine’s decision whether or not to save Annabel’s niece. If he saves her, he gives himself up as a criminal. If he doesn’t, he will feel guilty for not saving the girl’s life.

Who is the story about in A Retrieved Reformation?

Synopsis. Set in the American Midwest during the early 1900s, “A Retrieved Reformation” concerns the surprising fate of Jimmy Valentine, a skilled young safecracker who returns to society after he is paroled from prison.

Why did Ben let Jimmy go in the end?

Ben let him go because he was touched by Jimmy’s willingness to give up his life with his new bride in order to save a little girl’s life. That proved to him that Jimmy was trustworthy in his reformation, and worth giving a second chance.

Why do you think O Henry’s story is called A Retrieved Reformation?

Jimmy Valentine, the hero of the story, is a professional safecracker. Once he gets out of prison he goes right back to his old ways. But then he meets and falls in love with Annabel Adams and decides to go straight. This is his “reformation.”

What was the climax of Retrieved Reformation?

Climax: Annabel’s niece, Agatha, gets locked into the new safe at the bank. his true identity while Annabel’s family and Ben Price all watch.

What happens to Jimmy Valentine in Elmore?

What happens to Jimmy Valentine in Elmore? He decides to con a pretty girl into marrying him because her father owns the bank and changes his name. He falls in love with a girl but her father does not trust Jimmy, knowing him for a thief.

Why did Ralph become Jimmy again?

The idea was that men could wear the same shirt for several days but change the collar to look fresh. So Jimmy wisely moves a long distance to a small town and changes his name. But he falls in love at first sight with a beautiful small-town girl named Annabel Adams.