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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. On whose point of view is the narrative focused in "The Gift of the Magi"?

2. What is Jim and Della's last name?

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

4. What Biblical king and queen are referenced in "The Gift of the Magi"?

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

Short Essay Questions

1. What are the financial circumstances of the Youngs?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss the theme of wealth versus poverty in "The Gift of the Magi." How do the settings in the story reinforce this theme? How do the actions of the characters connect to this theme? What statement do you think the author is making regarding wealth versus poverty?

Essay Topic 2

Discuss language style in "The Gift of the Magi." How would you describe the dialogue within the story? How do the characters' speech differ from the narrator's style of speaking? Is the language complex or simple? Why?

Essay Topic 3

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?

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