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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 the electric bell at Jim and Della's apartment described?
(a) It does not work.
(b) It is tinkly and soft.
(c) It buzzes nonstop.
(d) It is incredibly loud.

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

3. How old is Jim said to be in the narrative?
(a) 22.
(b) 24.
(c) 32.
(d) 29.

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

5. What did Jim sell to buy Della's gift?
(a) His hair.
(b) His ring.
(c) His coat.
(d) His watch.

Short Answer Questions

1. How much money does Della have left when she returns home from purchasing Jim's watch chain?

2. What are the most significant symbols in "The Gift of the Magi"?

3. How did Della manage to save the amount she has for Jim's Christmas gift in the opening of "The Gift of the Magi"?

4. How much money does Della pay for Jim's watch chain?

5. The watch chain is described as being like Jim, who is said to be embodied with what?

Short Essay Questions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. What is Jim's most prized possession and how is it described?

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

(see the answer keys)

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