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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. When Della lets down her hair in the beginning of "The Gift of the Magi" it is said to almost create what?

2. How long is it until Christmas in the opening of "The Gift of the Magi"?

3. What are Jim and Della about to do in the end of "The Gift of the Magi"?

4. What aspect of the plot structure in "The Gift of the Magi" is one for which O. Henry was famous?

5. How is the looking-glass described in Della and Jim's home?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is Della's most prized possession and how is it described?

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

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

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

5. What is the "inciting incident" in "The Gift of the Magi" and how does it drive the story?

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

7. Describe one simile or metaphor from the short story and how it serves the reader.

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

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

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss the author's use of similes and metaphors in "The Gift of the Magi." What metaphors are used in describing Della's hair? What metaphors or similes are used in describing the main characters? How is imagery used in illustrating Jim and Della's home?

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

Discuss the author's use of irony in "The Gift of the Magi." How is irony defined? What are the different types of irony? What type of irony is employed in this story? What effects does it have?

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