A Christmas Carol Form and Structure

Question 1

Narrator

Answer 1

The novella is narrated by a didactic third-person narrator, who manipulates our impression of Scrooge with scathing (negative) descriptions of him.

Question 2

Author’s voice

Answer 2

We sometimes hear Dickens’ voice when he adds a touch of comedy: this authorial intrusion is designed to win over the reader, making them more agreeable to Dickens’ message.

Question 3

Parable

Answer 3

The novella is a parable: a moral story with a strong message; it is a simple didactic tale.

Question 4

Structure/ organisation

Answer 4

It is arranged in five staves (not chapters) as a metaphor for an actual Christmas carol. It contains musical imagery throughout (e.g. church bells).

Question 5

Allegory/ Allegorical

Answer 5

Many of the characters are allegorical figures: characters who stand for ideas (e.g. Fred stands for tolerance and forgiveness).

Question 6

Gothic

Answer 6

Gothic imagery creates feelings of suspense, fear and tension.

Question 7

Circular structure

Answer 7

The circular structure emphasises Scrooge’s change. In Stave Five he makes amends with all those he rejected in Stave One: charity collectors, Fred, Bob/The Cratchits, the caroller.