The Gift of the Magi

Front

What is the main theme of 'The Gift of the Magi'?

Back

The main theme is the sacrifice of love, where the characters give up their most prized possessions for each other.

Front

Define 'neurochemical'.

Back

Neurochemical refers to the chemicals that carry information or messages between the brain and body.

Front

What does it mean to 'haggle'?

Back

To haggle means to argue about the details of something, particularly the price, before reaching an agreement.

Front

What inference can we make about the couple's financial situation from the setting details?

Back

The couple doesn't have extra money to spend on Christmas.

Front

What is the setting of 'The Gift of the Magi'?

Back

The setting is New York City in the 1900s.

Front

Define 'sparse'.

Back

Sparse means present only in small amounts or spread out over an area.

Front

What is the significance of the Christmas tree in the story?

Back

The small, scraggly Christmas tree symbolizes the couple's financial struggles and their love for each other.

Front

How do the characters demonstrate love in 'The Gift of the Magi'?

Back

They demonstrate love by sacrificing their most valuable possessions to buy gifts for each other.

Front

What literary device is used in the ending of 'The Gift of the Magi'?

Back

Irony is used, as both characters' sacrifices render their gifts useless.

Front

What does the story suggest about material possessions?

Back

The story suggests that love and sacrifice are more valuable than material possessions.