Social injustice Theme Quotes Flashcards
“Are there no prisons?… And the Union workhouses?”
Scrooge shows his ignorance and cruelty. He sees poverty as a crime rather than a failure of society. Dickens criticises this cold view of the poor.
“If they would rather die, they had better do it, and decrease the surplus population.”
Scrooge echoes harsh Malthusian beliefs. Dickens uses this line to highlight the inhumanity of ignoring social injustice.
“This boy is Ignorance. This girl is Want. Beware them both…”
The Ghost of Christmas Present shows two neglected children who symbolise society’s failings. A warning of what happens if social injustice continues.
“They are man’s. And they cling to me.”
The ghost says mankind is responsible for creating poverty and ignorance. Dickens blames human neglect for social injustice.
“The Treadmill and the Poor Law are in full vigour, then?”
Scrooge sarcastically refers to harsh institutions. Dickens criticises these cruel systems meant to “help” the poor.
“Many thousands are in want of common necessaries…”
The charity men highlight widespread suffering, while Scrooge’s cold response shows how the rich ignore injustice.
“A solitary child, neglected by his friends.”
Young Scrooge’s isolation reflects emotional neglect. Dickens suggests that even people who are cruel were once victims themselves.
“They were not a handsome family… but they were happy.”
The Cratchits show that the poor are still loving, grateful, and worthy of care – challenging stereotypes about the poor.
