The Gift of the Magi by O

“The Gift of the Magi” by O. Henry

WORDS TO OWN

1. Choose the synonym of instigate: a. Revoke b. Hesitate c. Incite

2. Choose the phrase that means the opposite of scrutiny: a. Superficial examination b. Careful study c. Watchful gaze

3. Choose the phrase that means the opposite of depreciate: a. Raise the value b. Purchase cheaply c. Greatly impress

4. Choose the synonym for covet: a. Purchase b. Desire c. Relinquish

Section I (p.204) Quotes from Story My Thoughts 1. Do you agree with the “moral reflection” that “life is made up of sobs, sniffles, and smiles, with sniffles predominating”? Why or why not?

2. What do these details on pg. 204 tell you about the couple and the setting of the story?

3. At the end of pg. 204, where do you think Della is going?

Section 2 (p.205) Quotes from Story My Thoughts

1. Reword the following paragraph in plain diction: “When Della reached home, her intoxication gave way a little to prudence and reason….”

2. Make predictions about what will happen when Jim gets home. Section III(p.206-207) Quotes from Story My Thoughts

1. Make a prediction as to why Jim was acting so strangely upon seeing Della for the first time.

2. Describe the ironic situation Jim and Della find themselves in?

Putting it All Together

1. Find three ornate sentences in the story and rewrite each of them using plain, straightforward diction, as if you were modernizing the story for today’s readers. 2. What did Della want to buy for her husband for Christmas? How much money did she have to start with?

3. What did Della do to get the money to buy her husband the gift?

4. What did Jim buy for his wife for Christmas?

5. How much money did Jim make a week at his job?

6. What were the two possessions of the Youngs “in which they both took a mighty pride”?

7. What do we learn about the relationship between Della and Jim? Do they love each other still after the events of the story?

8. Who are the Magi? What is the real gift in the story?

9. Describe the place where they live.

10. Explain in your own words the last paragraph of the story.