acc themes: religion

Question 1

When he is first described, how far is Scrooge shown as someone who is religious?

Answer 1

In the initial description of Scrooge, he is described as a “covetous old sinner!”. This tells the reader that his bad behaviour defies the teachings of Christianity.

Question 2

What changes in Scrooge’s behaviour to show that he has developed a Christian attitude?

Answer 2

The portly gentlemen are collecting in the name of Christian charity, Scrooge withholds funds at the start of the novella, but gives freely at the end. This suggests he has developed a Christian attitude towards the poor.

Question 3

What does the Ghost of Christmas Past do that could be considered as religiously symbolic?

Answer 3

The Ghost of Christmas Past emits a light and he could be considered symbolic of Jesus as he helps Scrooge to see the light and become a better person.

Question 4

Which other characters use religious language to express themselves?

Answer 4

The good characters, such as Fred and Bob, often use religious language to express themselves and greet others.Stave 1 “A Merry Christmas, Uncle! God save you!” (Fred)
Stave 3 “A Merry Christmas to us all, my dears. God bless us!” (Bob)
Stave 3 “God bless us, every one” (Tiny Tim)