Characterization, Theme, and Irony in "The Gift of the Magi"
Question 13 • AZ-English Language Arts 9 B
Read the excerpt from "The Gift of the Magi."Jim stopped inside the door, as immovable as a setter at the scent of quail. His eyes were fixed upon Della, and there was an expression in them that she could not read, and it terrified her. It was not anger, nor surprise, nor disapproval, nor horror, nor any of the sentiments that she had been prepared for. He simply stared at her fixedly with that peculiar expression on his face.
Answer
A
indirectly, through his lack of action.
B
directly, through his physical appearance.
C
directly, through his personality that is concerned with change.
D
indirectly, through his lack of feelings for Della.
Explanation
The passage does not directly tell readers what Jim is thinking or feeling. Instead, it shows his reaction: he stops, stands still, and stares at Della. Those actions indirectly characterize him, so “indirectly, through his lack of action” is the best choice. His silence does not mean he lacks feelings for Della.
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