A CHRISTMAS CAROL | Christmas Spirit and Religion Flashcards
“Carol”
The theme of Christmas is evidently central to the text due to the title and it being both set and published during the festive time. A ‘carol’ is a piece of music sung in church and is often associated with uniting people regardless of their social status. There are multiple interpretations of what Dickens was aiming to suggest with the title. Some may argue that he intended to hold the church accountable for failing to unite
society. This is because he ironically highlights the substantial divisions between social classes in Victorian society. Others believe that Dickens endeavoured to produce a novella which would guide readers on how to celebrate Christmas in a manner which would unite society in a similar way to traditional Christmas carols. This is a secure viewpoint as it is widely accepted that Dickens attributed and popularised an emotional element to the festive time which was not apparent prior to the publication of ‘A Christmas Carol’. This is supported by Professor Les Standiford, author of ‘The Man Who Invented Christmas, who said that “The publication of A Christmas Carol added an emotional component to Christmas and changed it”.
(Redemption and Change)
“incessant torture”
“cannot rest” nor “stay” nor “linger anywhere”
It is interesting to note that Scrooge’s redemption, which is fundamental to the text, is inherently religious in its nature. Firstly, when Marley’s Ghost appears in the opening stave, he informs Scrooge of the “incessant torture” he is facing in the afterlife. Dickens reveals that he is in some form of purgatory as he “cannot rest” nor “stay” nor “linger anywhere”. According to Christian belief, purgatory is an intermediate state following death where people who have done wrong are punished for their actions in order to be purified. This introduces ideas of judgement and accountability, which adds a religious weight and ultimatum to Scrooge’s need to change. As a result, the theme amplifies the dramatic effect of the novella by increasing the build-up of tension.
(Redemption and Change)
When Scrooge discusses Sabbatarianism with the Ghost of Christmas Present he claims that it is observed in the Spirit’s “name” or “at least” in the name of its “family”. This makes it clear that Scrooge views the Spirits as godlike figures, introducing the idea of divine intervention. Dickens presents this as a beneficial concept as it has the ability to
inspire positive change, as seen through the effect the Spirits have on Scrooge’s transformation. This may perhaps be an effort to prompt readers to attend church or engage with religion, as this is the only method through which they too can access a sense of divine
intervention. This suggestion is supported by the fact that Scrooge “went to church”following his redemption, implying that his attendance is a virtuous action which Dickens encourages.
