fred Flashcards
quote 1
This nephew of Scrooge’s that he was all in a glow; his face was ruddy and handsome; his eyes sparkled.P9
“glow’ ‘sparkled” is representative of light which symbolises hope like the hope provided by religion and teachings of the Bible indicative of Fred being embodiment of Christian teachings
19th Century readers belief in the theory of physiognomy to imply that Fred’s appearance is a manifestation of the state of his blessed soul,
quote 2
‘Uncle, though it has never put a scrap of gold or silver in my pocket, I believe that it has done me good.. God bless it!’p10
contrasts Scrooge’s materialism, showing that he values Christmas for its joy and human connection, not wealth. His blessing “God bless” adds a religious undertone, aligning Christmas with Christian values of generosity and goodwill.
Fred is a foil to Scrooge to accentuate Scrooge’s misanthropic and miserly tendencies.
quote 3
“his offences carry their own punishments, and I have nothing to say against him” p59
Use of word ‘punishment’ suggest deeper understanding of morality recognising Scrooge immoralities are nit his to judge but of a higher power aligning Fred with a sense of divine order further solidifying his portrayal as a paragon (perfect example) of virtue and of a moral pious citizen. Fred is embodiment of the virtue of compassion towards his uncle, despite Scrooge’s evident misanthropy and parsimony.
quote 4
“if he finds me going there in good temper, year after year, and saying, ‘Uncle scrooge, how are you?’ if it only puts him in vein to leave his poor clerk fifty pounds, that’s something” P60
He doesn’t seek advantage for himself but instead for Bob Cratchit, Scrooge’s clerk, he sees his actions as a potential to enact positive change for others. The term ‘Uncle’ indicates that Scrooge is still considered as family despite their difficult relationship.
quote 5
“Heartily sorry… for your good wife. If I can be of service to you in any way” p78
Fred offers his condolences to Bob Cratchit and offers help to them which directly juxtaposes Scrooge’s treatment of the Cratchit’s when he rejects highlighting Fred kind nature as a upper class Victorian.
