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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. The narrator says in the end of "The Gift of the Magi" that these two (Jim and Della) were what, among all who give gifts?
(a) The most exposed.
(b) The least wise.
(c) The most narrow-minded.
(d) The most wise.

2. What color is Della's hair?
(a) Brown.
(b) Blonde.
(c) Black.
(d) Red.

3. What does the narrator say that large-hearted giving can leave behind?
(a) Deep marks.
(b) Bitter resentments.
(c) Traces of glory.
(d) Sorrowful regrets.

4. What are the most significant symbols in "The Gift of the Magi"?
(a) The hair shop and the jewelry store.
(b) The ring and the necklace.
(c) The combs and the watch-chain.
(d) The cat and the apartment building.

5. How long is Della's hair described in the beginning of "The Gift of the Magi"?
(a) Below her ankles.
(b) To her shoulders.
(c) Just above her waist.
(d) Below her knees.

Short Answer Questions

1. How is Della's physical stature described by the narrator?

2. What aspect of the plot structure in "The Gift of the Magi" is one for which O. Henry was famous?

3. How does the narrator describe Jim and Della in the end of "The Gift of the Magi"?

4. What does Della pray for as Jim is about to enter their apartment in "The Gift of the Magi"?

5. For how long does Della shop for a gift for Jim after selling her hair?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is the "inciting incident" in "The Gift of the Magi" and how does it drive the story?

2. Describe the character of Della in "The Gift of the Magi." What does Della seek in the story?

3. What are the financial circumstances of the Youngs?

4. Describe one example of symbolism in "The Gift of the Magi." What does the symbol represent?

5. What is one example of Biblical reference or allusion in the story and why is it used?

6. Describe the character of Jim Young in "The Gift of the Magi." What motivates Jim in the story?

7. How does the author use symbolism to develop the theme of wealth and poverty in "The Gift of the Magi"?

8. What is Della's most prized possession and how is it described?

9. In what tense and from what narrative perspective is "The Gift of the Magi" related?

10. Describe the character of Madame Sofronie in the story. What imagery does the author present with her introduction?

(see the answer keys)

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