ghost of present Flashcards
quote 1
“Ceilings were so hung with living green” – p44
use of the word “green” gives connotations of Christmas suggesting the Ghost is the embodiment of Christmas which will resonate with the contemporary readership as they are predominately Christian. “so hung” suggest the ceilings were entirely filled with decorations for Christmas illustrating the abundance that comes with Christmas
quote 2
“there sat a jolly Giant, glorious to see; who bore a glowing torch, in shape not unlike Plenty’s horn” p45
Dickens contrasts the “jolly” nature of the Ghost of Christmas Present with the “strange figure” of the first ghost to highlight a shift from reflection to warmth, making this spirit a more inviting guide to Christmas values. The “glowing torch” extends the recurring motif of light, symbolising enlightenment and guidance, as the ghosts lead Scrooge out of the darkness of ignorance and greed towards redemption and generosity.
quote 3
“It was clothed in one simple deep green robe, or mantle, bordered with white fur…its capacious breasts was bare” p45
The contrast of luxury piece of clothing “white fur” and “bare” is representative of the upper class and lower class in one demonstrating how the Christmas and therefore the Ghost of Christmas is supposed to bring unity despite class.
quote 4
“its cheery voice , its unconstrained demeanour, and it’s joyful air” p45
The “unconstrained demeanour” highlights the ghost as free, uninhibited, and unburdened by greed or worry, serving as a foil to Scrooge, whose existence is defined by rigid control, isolation, and miserliness illustrating how the Ghost is an example of all the values Scrooge must embody to complete his transformation.
quote 5
“Girded round its middle was an antique scabbard; but no sword was in it” p45
This is demonstrative of the ghost of Christmas has the option of violence and conflict however does not use it as there is “now sword in it” establishing Christmas as a time of peace. The use of the adjective “antique” could further illustrate how the ‘Scabbard and Sword” is not in use whilst also representing how Ghost and therefore Christmas is not a new tradition and is a long-standing celebration that Scrooge opts out of.
