Questions: Read the excerpt from "The Gift of the Magi." In this excerpt, Jim's character is developed Jim stopped inside the door, as immovable as a setter at the scent of quail. His eyes were fixed upon Della, and indirectly, through his lack of action: there was an expression in them that she could not read, directly, through his physical appearance. and it terrified her. It was not anger, nor surprise, nor disapproval, nor horror, nor any of the sentiments that directly, through his personality that is concerned with change. she had been prepared for. He simply stared at her fixedly with that peculiar expression on his face.

In the excerpt from "The Gift of the Magi," Jim's character is developed through his reaction to Della. The description of Jim as "immovable as a setter at the scent of quail" suggests a moment of intense focus and concentration. This simile indicates that Jim is processing something significant, and his stillness conveys a depth of emotion that is not immediately apparent.

The passage highlights Jim's complexity and the depth of his feelings for Della. The fact that his expression is unreadable and does not align with any of the emotions Della anticipated—such as anger, surprise, disapproval, or horror—suggests that Jim's reaction is more profound and nuanced. This moment of silence and the peculiar expression on his face indicate that Jim is experiencing a mix of emotions that are difficult to articulate, reflecting his love and the gravity of the situation.

This development of Jim's character emphasizes the theme of selfless love and sacrifice that is central to the story. His reaction suggests that he is deeply moved by Della's actions, and it foreshadows the revelation of his own sacrifice, which mirrors Della's. The passage effectively builds suspense and emotional tension, leading to the story's poignant conclusion.