Ghost Of Christmas Past Flashcards
Introduction
Represents memory
Enigmatic, wise
Use of dualities, paradoxes and light imagery
Catalyst for Scrooge’s welfare
I.H.W.A.I.W.A.A.Y.T.F.H.N.A.W
It’s hair.. white as if with age; and yet the face had not a wrinkle
Juxtaposition of youth and age reflects the timeless nature of memory
Dickens uses this paradox to show how the past is ever-present
Y.N.L.A.C.A.L.A.O.M
Yet not like a child as like an old man
Dual imagery shows the ghost embodying innocence and wisdom
Reflects Dickens’ concern with the loss of childhood joy, stolen by harsh Victorian conditions.
A.B.C.J.O.L
A bright clear jet of light
Light motif represents truth and enlightenment The Ghost acts as a moral spotlight, linking to Dickens’ theme of responsibility
C.N.H.T.L
Could not hide the light
memory can’t be suppressed.
Scrooge attempts to dim the past mirrors Victorian denial of social inequality
T.R.G.P.H
The relentless ghost pinioned him
Verb “pinioned” connotes force, showing how Scrooge is powerless against his own conscience.
Dickens presents memory as essential for redemption.
F.H.T.O.W.H.N
Forced him to observe what happened next
Scrooge must reckon with truth to grow.
The Ghost’s role is almost judicial — like Dickens himself, it holds individuals accountable.
L.U.S.A.C
let us see another Christmas
Collective pronoun “us” draws the audience) in, showing how reflection is a shared human necessity.
Links to Dickens’ broader message of moral evolution.
A.S.M.T.M.T.S.F.S.F.O.G
A small matter.. to make these silly folks so full of gratitude
Irony and diminutive language subtly criticise Scrooge’s former lack of empathy
Dickens shows how even minor kindness can transform lives
