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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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