The Gift of the Magi Quiz

1. What is the setting of this story?

• a. Christmastime in New York City around the year 1900
• b. Christmastime in London around 1950
• c. Christmastime in New York City today.
• d. A small town during modern times.

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2. In Scene One, why are Jim and Della “window shopping"?

• a. They need new windows for their apartment
• b. They’re shopping for Christmas gifts
• c. They can’t afford to buy anything so they’re just looking.
• d. All the stores are closed.

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3. Why would Jim be proud of his watch? What does it say about his character?

• a. The watch makes Jim feel important and distinguished.
• b. It shows he aspires to being successful.
• c. It shows he’s conscious of time
• d. All of the above.

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4. Why does Jim want his mailbox changed? What does it imply?

• a. He doesn’t like his middle name anymore.
• b. A pay cut has hurt his self-esteem.
• c. Dillingham is not his middle name.
• d. He is trying to save money.

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5. What does Della mean by, “the worst cuts to save a penny, the bruised fruit to save two.”

• a. That she has to argue with the merchants so they won’t sell her damaged products.
• b. That she takes the worst items to save money.
• c. That the worst cuts only cost a penny and damaged fruit only costs two.
• d. That she only buys the best foods for her Jim.

6. Della is apparently pretty, a loving wife, and works hard at being frugal. Does she have any negative traits?

• a. No, she is an ideal wife.
• b. Yes, she is greedy.
• c. Yes, she is a bit childish.
• d. Yes, she is bad at managing money.

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7. What does Della see when she glances in the mirror?

• a. That she’s growing old.
• b. That she has something of value she can sell.
• c. That she is more beautiful than ever.
• d. That her tears have smudged her make-up.

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8. In Scene 4, what would be the most suitable synonym for “quibbling.”

• a. worrying
• b. accepting
• c. fighting
• d. arguing

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9. Who is the story’s main character, Jim or Della? Why do you think so?

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10. Do you agree with the Magi? In what way have Jim and Della demonstrated wisdom or foolishness?

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