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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

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

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

3. How would you describe Della's feelings for Jim?

4. How is the design of the watch chain described?

5. Where did Jim obtain his gold watch?

Short Essay Questions

1. How is the theme of sacrifice developed in the story through character?

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

3. What does Della purchase for Jim for Christmas? How is this object described?

4. What is an example of foreshadowing in "The Gift of the Magi"? What is foreshadowed?

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

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

7. How does the historical context of "The Gift of the Magi" influence the story?

8. Where does the climax occur in "The Gift of the Magi"?

9. What does "allegory" mean and how does this term apply to "The Gift of the Magi"?

10. What statement do you think the author is making regarding wisdom in "The Gift of the Magi"?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Describe and discuss the setting of "The Gift of the Magi." How is the Youngs' home described? What clues in the setting indicate the time period of the story? Do you think this story could be set in a different time period and/or place? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 2

Discuss the historical context of "The Gift of the Magi." When was this short story written? What was the economical, cultural, and political atmosphere like at this time? How are those aspects demonstrated in the story?

Essay Topic 3

Describe and discuss examples of foreshadowing and red herrings in "The Gift of the Magi." How are foreshadowing and red herrings defined? Which apply in the story? What are the results of their use in the narrative?

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