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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. What aspect of the plot structure in "The Gift of the Magi" is one for which O. Henry was famous?
2. What Biblical king and queen are referenced in "The Gift of the Magi"?
3. How much is the cost of the room where Della and Jim live?
4. How is the looking-glass described in Della and Jim's home?
5. What is the watch chain made of that Della buys for Jim?
Short Essay Questions
1. Describe the character of Della in "The Gift of the Magi." What does Della seek in the story?
2. Describe the character of Jim Young in "The Gift of the Magi." What motivates Jim in the story?
3. What are the financial circumstances of the Youngs?
4. Describe one simile or metaphor from the short story and how it serves the reader.
5. What does Della purchase for Jim for Christmas? How is this object described?
6. When and where was "The Gift of the Magi" first published? When and where was it first published in book-form?
7. What is the "inciting incident" in "The Gift of the Magi" and how does it drive the story?
8. What does "narrative intrusion" mean and how does it apply to "The Gift of the Magi"?
9. What is one example of Biblical reference or allusion in the story and why is it used?
10. What is Jim's most prized possession and how is it described?
Essay Topics
Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:
Essay Topic 1
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 2
Discuss the theme of sacrifice in "The Gift of the Magi." How is this theme developed through symbolism? How is it developed through character? What statement is the author making regarding sacrifice?
Essay Topic 3
Describe and analyze the character of Della Young in "The Gift of the Magi." How old is Della? For how long has she been married? What are Della's actions, objectives, and obstacles in the story?
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This section contains 754 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) |
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