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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. In what approximate time period does "The Gift of the Magi" take place?
(a) The early 1900s.
(b) The late 1700s.
(c) The early 1800s.
(d) The late 1600s.

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

3. How would you describe Della's feelings for Jim?
(a) She resents him greatly.
(b) She secretly detests him.
(c) She is constantly jealous over him.
(d) She loves him dearly.

4. What did the magi bring to the baby Jesus in the Bible?
(a) Gold, hair tresses, and combs.
(b) Gold, frankinscense, and myrrh.
(c) Branches, coal, and a manger.
(d) A sheep, a llama, and a rabbit.

5. What does Della pray for as Jim is about to enter their apartment in "The Gift of the Magi"?
(a) For Jim to ask for a divorce.
(b) For Jim to have bought her a present.
(c) For Jim to think she is still pretty.
(d) For Jim to be happy she is pregnant.

Short Answer Questions

1. Which of the following is a central theme in "The Gift of the Magi"?

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

3. What does the narrator say Jim would have done if a king had lived in the same home as he and Della?

4. What color is Della's hair?

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

Short Essay Questions

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

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

3. What are the financial circumstances of the Youngs?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(see the answer keys)

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