A Christmas Carol - Key Quotes And Meanings Flashcards
Objective is to understand all quotes used in the staves and the purpose.
What does the quote “As solitary as an oyster” mean and which character are they referring to? (Stave 1)
This simile shows how Scrooge’s isolation and self-improvised loneliness is like an oyster. He is closed off from the world, hard shelled and stubborn
What does the quote “Oh! But he was a tight-fisted hand at the grindstone, Scrooge! A squeezing, wrenching, grasping, scraping, clutching covetous old sinner!” mean and which character are they referring to? (Stave 1)
List of adjectives tells us about Scrooge’s greed, selfishness and miserliness. Tight-fisted reflects his unwillingness to share or spend his wealth, even for his own comfort.
What does the quote “Marley was dead; to begin with” mean and which character are they referring to? (Stave 1)
Makes it clear that Marley is definitely not alive, which is important so we believe it when his ghost shows up later in the novella.
What does the quote “Every idiot who goes about with Merry Christmas on his lips, should be boiled with his own pudding” mean and which character are they referring to? (Stave 1)
Reflects Scrooge’s disbelief and hatred for Christmas, symbolising his selfishness and lack of compassion.
What does the quote “I wear the chain I forged in life” mean and which character are they referring to? (Stave 1)
Marley’s chain symbolises the consequences of his greed and selfishness and this serves as a warning to Scrooge to CHANGE HIS WAYS
What does the quote “Another idol has displaced me” mean and which character are they referring to? (Stave 2)
Belle breaks off her engagement to Scrooge, accusing him of prioritising wealth over love. This is an important moment in his emotional decline.
What does the quote “God bless us everyone” mean and which character are they referring to? (Stave 3)
Embodies the spirit of Christmas and the novellas theme of generosity, compassion and goodwill.
