The Gift of the Magi

Theme

100

What is a theme?

The lesson or moral of the story

200

Which of the following best states a theme from the story?

1. Your status doesn't define you
2. Beauty isn't everything
3. It's the thought that counts
4. Unselfish love is the greatest of all gifts

D. Unselfish love is the greatest of all gifts

Plot

100

What are the 5 parts of a plot?

Exposition, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, Resolution

200

How does the first paragraph help develop the plot of the story?

1. It illustrates how rude Della is
2. It illustrates how independent Della is
3. It illustrates how expensive it is to live in London
4. It illustrates how concerned with money Della is

D. It illustrates how concerned with money Della is

Word Choice and Evidence

100

1. PART A: What does the term "pier-glass" mean, as it is used in paragraph 7?

   
   

   1. A section of decorative stained glass
   2. A mirror
   3. A window
   4. A peep-hole

B. A mirror

200

1. PART B: Which detail from the text best supports the answer to Part A?

   
   

   1. "Perhaps you have seen a pier-glass in an $8 flat." (Paragraph 7)
   2. "…by observing his reflection…" (Paragraph 7)
   3. "Della, being slender, had mastered the art." (Paragraph 7)
   4. "…whirled from the window and stood before the glass." (Paragraph 8)

B. "…by observing his reflection…" (Paragraph 7)

Story Elements

100

What is the definition of tone?

The attitude of the author towards the subject/story

200

Reread paragraph 45. How are Jim and Della similar to the Magi?

1. Jim and Della are shopping for Christmas presents; the Magi invented the tradition of giving Christmas presents
2. Jim and Della make great sacrifices to give each other special Christmas gifts
3. Jim and Della are poor, and cannot give each other what they want for Christmas
4. Jim and Della are deeply religious, and hold the Magi in high esteem

B. Jim and Della make great sacrifices to give each other special Christmas gifts