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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. How is Della's coat described?
(a) Old and brown.
(b) New and red.
(c) Old and gray.
(d) Navy blue and new.

2. Which of the following is a central theme in "The Gift of the Magi"?
(a) Ambition.
(b) Mother-daughter relationships.
(c) Sacrifice.
(d) Revenge.

3. How is Della's hat described?
(a) Old and brown.
(b) Navy blue and new.
(c) New and red.
(d) Old and gray.

4. What does the narrator say Jim needs in "The Gift of the Magi"?
(a) A rifle.
(b) A pair of new pants.
(c) A pair of socks.
(d) A new coat.

5. To whose shop does Della go to sell her hair?
(a) Madame Sofronie's shop.
(b) Madame Montpellier's shop.
(c) Madame Lemonds's shop.
(d) Madame Richmond's shop.

Short Answer Questions

1. What has Jim bought Della for Christmas?

2. What did Jim sell to buy Della's gift?

3. How is the letter-box described as Della and Jim's apartment building?

4. How is the electric bell at Jim and Della's apartment described?

5. What are the "magi" from the Bible also referred to as?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does "narrative intrusion" mean and how does it apply to "The Gift of the Magi"?

2. How has "The Gift of the Magi" been critically received since its publication?

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

4. What are the financial circumstances of the Youngs?

5. Where does the rising action take place in "The Gift of the Magi"?

6. Describe one example of irony in "The Gift of the Magi." What type of irony is described?

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

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

9. What does Jim purchase for Della and how is this object described?

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

(see the answer keys)

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