Fred Chararacter Analysis

Question 1

Fred: Character description

Answer 1

Scrooge’s Nephew is a optmistic and positive character. Despite Scrooge’s ill mannered behaviour with Fred he vows to visit his uncle ‘year after year’ to try and change his attitude.

Question 2

Who is Fred used to antithesise in ACC?

Answer 2

His character is used to antithesise Scrooge in the opening stave of ACC. Fred’s attitude to christmas and kindness is the direct opposite to Scrooge.

Question 3

What does Fred juxtapose in the opening stave?

Answer 3

His character is first used to juxtapose the atmosphere in stave 1. Dickens contrasts the bleak and miserable descriptions of the setting with the ‘glow’ that Fred brings.

Question 4

Why can Fred be described as a foil to Scrooge?

Answer 4

This is because he contrasts his character in order to emphasise certain qualities. Therefore, by emphasising Fred’s goodness, Dickens amplifies the negative qualities within Scrooge.

Question 5

Contrast between Fred and Scrooge: Key words and Quotes

Answer 5

Scrooge- Apathetic: “No warmth could warm him no wintery weather chill him”
Fred- Emphathetic: “I am sorry for him; I couldn’t be angry with him if I tried.”
Scrooge-Selfish: “Tight fisted”
Fred-Generous: “Extraordinary kindness of Scrooge’s nephew”