A Christmas Carol Flashcards
(36 cards)
What literary technique is used in “solitary as an oyster”?
Simile.
What does the word “solitary” suggest about Scrooge’s lifestyle?
He lives in isolation, like someone in solitary confinement - but he’s forced to be alone
How does the oyster metaphor relate to hidden potential?
Like an oyster hides a pearl, Scrooge’s goodness and humanity is hidden behind the shell of capitalism
What does the oyster represent in terms of capitalism?
A hard shell that protects wealth and isolates the individual.
How do the ghosts relate to this oyster symbolism?
They crack the oyster to reveal the ‘pearl’ inside—Scrooge’s potential to change.
Why would this metaphor appeal to Dickens’ upper-class readers?
It shows that even wealthy, isolated people can transform, making the message hopeful and accessible.
What does the “golden idol” symbolize?
Money, greed, and the worship of wealth over human connection.
What does Belle mean by “another idol”?
Scrooge now worships money instead of her or love.
How does the “another idol… a golden one” quote reflect on Scrooge’s priorities?
He sacrifices love and morality for wealth.
What does the word “displaced” suggest about the shift in Scrooge’s values?
A sudden, decisive replacement of emotion with ambition.
How does this reflect the path to economic success Victorian society?
It critiques how people were forced to sacrifice relationships to succeed economically.
What is the emotional impact of this quote “nothing on which it is so hard… “ on the reader?
It evokes pity and disappointment, making Scrooge’s greed more tragic.
What do Marley’s chains represent?
The consequences of his greed and selfish actions.
What does “forged in life” suggest about personal responsibility?
Marley created his own punishment through his choices.
What is the purpose of Marley’s warning to Scrooge?
To scare him into changing before it’s too late.
How does this quote reflect Dickens’ view on capitalism?
It condemns the moral cost of valuing profit over people.
What role does fear play in Scrooge’s transformation?
Fear of Marley’s fate pushes Scrooge to begin his redemption.
How does Dickens use this image to convey a moral lesson?
He shows that everyone is accountable for how they treat others.
What literary technique is used in “smooth white sheet of snow upon the roof, and the dirtier snow upon the ground”?
Juxtaposition and pathetic fallacy.
What does the “smooth white sheet” of snow symbolize?
The clean, untouched lives of the wealthy upper class.
What does the “dirtier snow” on the ground represent?
The trampled, struggling working class.
What mood does the sibilance create in this quote?
A cold, quiet, and reflective atmosphere.
How does this image reflect Victorian social hierarchy?
It shows the divide between classes—those above and those beneath.
Why is this contrast significant in the novella?
It highlights Dickens’ criticism of class inequality.
