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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 design of the watch chain described?
(a) Extravagant.
(b) Highly detailed.
(c) Simple.
(d) Elaborate.

2. To what is Della's hair compared when she lets it down in the beginning of "The Gift of the Magi"?
(a) A sea of jellyfish.
(b) A snowy lake.
(c) A peacock's feathers.
(d) A falling stream.

3. What are the "magi" from the Bible also referred to as?
(a) The Three Old Lepers.
(b) The Three Bearers of Gold.
(c) The Three Virgins.
(d) The Three Wise Men.

4. What Biblical king and queen are referenced in "The Gift of the Magi"?
(a) The Queen of Sheba and King Solomon.
(b) Queen Elizabeth and King Henry.
(c) Queen Berenice and King David.
(d) Candace, Queen of Ethiopia and King Ahab.

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

Short Answer Questions

1. What does the narrator say that large-hearted giving can leave behind?

2. How is the proprietor of the hair shop described?

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

4. At what time does Della have Jim's dinner ready for him?

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

Short Essay Questions

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

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

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

4. What are the financial circumstances of the Youngs?

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

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

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

8. Describe the setting of the Youngs' apartment.

9. What adaptations have been developed of "The Gift of the Magi"?

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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