A Christmas Carol Quotes - Poverty/Injustice

Question 1

Whys: 1

Answer 1

Dickens uses the novella as a vehicle to address the issue of poverty in the mid-Victorian era, with the hope of changing his readers’ attitudes towards the poor from complacency indifference to compassion and altruism.

Question 2

Whys: 2

Answer 2

Throughout the novella, Dickens exposes the false economy of wealth and capitalism; the pursuit of money leaves Scrooge deeply dissatisfied and ultimately destroys all of the positive relationships in his life. Ironically, the least wealthy characters in the novella seem to most content, highlighting Dickens’ message that unity, familial bonds and togetherness far surpass material wealth.

Question 3

Whys: 3

Answer 3

Dickens emphasises that giving should not be understood in purely financial terms; some of the most profound and impactful moments in the novella are when characters freely give their time and compassion to others. For instance, Fred takes the time to speak to Bob Cratchit when he passes him on the street following the death of Tiny Tim, and Fezziwig takes the time to interact with each of his employers at his party, shaking them by the hand ‘individually’. At no cost to Fred or Fezziwig, sincere human interaction makes a significant difference to their respective recipients, highlighting the significance of an ostensibly small gesture.

Question 4

Whys: 4

Answer 4

Through the lack of relationship between Scrooge and his clerk Bob, Dickens condemns the ways in which the working class are exploited by their employers, who reap the benefits of this unjust treatment and fail in their duty of care. As the antithesis of Scrooge, Dickens heralds Fezziwig as a model employer, who treats his employees as individuals: worthy of compassion and respect.

Question 5

Whys: 5

Answer 5

Through the comments made by the two portly gentlemen, Dickens emphasises the extensive flaws in proposed solutions to the wide-scale problem of poverty of mid-nineteenth century London, namely workhouses and prisons. By suggesting that for many people death would be preferable than either of these facilities, Dickens exposes the desperate need for a more humane and compassionate solution: namely altruism and charitable giving.