Question

What is Jim’s initial reaction to Della when he arrives home? How does this reaction create suspense?

A) Jim is overjoyed and excited to see Della, creating suspense by anticipation of a positive surprise.
B) Jim is angry and disappointed, building suspense through conflict and tension.
C) Jim is surprised and puzzled, arousing curiosity and anticipation in the reader.
D) Jim is indifferent and unresponsive, reducing suspense through a lack of emotional engagement.

Answer 1

Jim's initial reaction is surprised and puzzled, which adds curiosity and anticipation to the story's suspense.

Step-by-step explanation:

The student's question pertains to Jim's reaction upon returning home in O. Henry's short story "The Gift of the Magi". Jim's initial reaction to Della is C) surprised and puzzled. This is shown through his inability to understand why Della has cut her hair, which was one of her most prized possessions. This reaction creates suspense as it arouses curiosity and anticipation in the reader. The reader is left to wonder how Jim will respond to Della's sacrifice and this adds to the overall dramatic tension of the narrative.