Stave Two

Question 1

“A positive light appeared to issue from Fezziwig’s calves”

Answer 1

• Fezziwig dancing at parties indicates a readiness to socialise with his employees and enjoy their company; contrast with Scrooge, who only interacts with Bob from a business point of view.
• “Light” has connotations of hope and heaven; reminiscent of “golden sunlight” in Stave Five; perhaps Dickens indicating to Victorian employers during the Industrial Revolution that Christianity must take priority over profit.
• Alternatively, light could be seen as antithesis to “foggier” weather referred to earlier; in antithesis to Scrooge’s moral blindness, Fezziwig’s vision is unimpaired and he sees the importance of being philanthropic and jovial towards his workers.

Question 2

“The happiness he gives, is quite as great as if it cost a fortune” – Scrooge describing Fezziwig’s party

Answer 2

• Simile “as great as if it cost a fortune” indicates Scrooge beginning to transform; he sees the value in Fezziwig spreading joviality amongst his employees.
• Antithesis to the miserly ways of Scrooge at the start, who only provided Bob with a fire that was “so very much smaller.” Provokes Scrooge into wanting to speak with his clerk, as he now regrets this inhumane treatment.
• Perhaps Dickens used Fezziwig as a role model for Victorian employers; they too can be as respected and loved as Fezziwig if they let their avariciousness give way to generosity.
• Noun “fortune” subtly hints that Scrooge’s transformation is not fully complete; he is still monetarily minded and must let go of his materialism.