The Gift of the Magi Quiz

“The Gift of the Magi” by O. Henry

1.       What is the setting of “The Gift of the Magi?” What time of year is it? How does this drive the plot of the story? Explain.

2.       What point of view is “The Gift of the Magi” told from? How could you tell? Explain.

3.       One of the major themes of “The Gift of the Magi” is sacrifice. What sacrifices do Jim and Della make in order to please the other?

4.       Situational irony occurs when there’s an unexpected outcome in a story. Describe how the ending of “The Gift of the Magi” is an example of situational irony.

5.       Della’s hair is described as "rippling and shining like a cascade of brown waters." Is this an example of a metaphor or simile? Why? Explain.