Writers Intention

Question 1

Intention 1

Answer 1

Dickens crafts an allegorical (story with moral message) novella with a didactic (to teach) purpose, aiming to convey a message about the virulent (harmful) consequences of avariciousness (greed) and frugality (stinginess) in society. He criticises the upper classes for their apathy (lack of concern) toward the poor and their complicity in perpetuating dehumanising laws and social structures through ignorance.

Question 2

Intention 2

Answer 2

•Dickens crafts the ghosts as vehicles for conveying his condemnation (criticism) of the ignorance and callousness (cruelty) prevalent among the materialistic upper classes. Thus, the ghosts serve as Dickens’ mouthpiece (can’t be in the novel so they speak his beliefs), delivering a powerful message advocating for compassion and societal reform.

Question 3

Intention 3

Answer 3

•Dickens communicates to his upper-class readers the important role of repentance (remorse) and compassion increasing both personal and societal moral redemption. By holding up a mirror to his readership, he prompts them to introspect (look in at themselves) and assess whether their attitudes perpetuate social injustice or contribute to social reform.