ACC - past / memories Flashcards
(5 cards)
Introduction
A Christmas Carol is a powerful allegorical novella written in 1843, exploring the human transformation of the protagonist, Scrooge. Dickens uses the structured visits from three spirits to gradually reveal his poor past choices, the depth of his remorse and the life he could have lived.
Paragraph 1 - ghost of christmas past
The Ghost of Christmas Past uses supernatural power to force Scrooge to relive painful memories. The ghost is described as “like a child: yet not so like a child as like an old man,” a paradoxical figure that represents memory and time. Its shifting form reflects the way the past is both distant and vivid. By showing Scrooge scenes from his youth, the ghost makes him feel regret and sorrow. Dickens employs this supernatural experience to begin breaking down Scrooge’s emotional barriers.
Paragraph 2 - Belle
When revisiting his past, Belle accuses him of replacing her with “a golden one,” a metaphor that presents money as a false idol, which may disturb the reader as it suggests greed has replaced Scrooge’s morality. The use of religious language here implies that Scrooge’s devotion to wealth has become a kind of worship, displacing genuine human connection. This moment is pivotal, as it reveals the personal cost of his greed—not just the loss of Belle, but the loss of the life they might have shared. Scrooge is aware of this as he exclaims “Spirit! Remove me from this place!” revealing his regret and sorrow. Dickens suggests that greed robs individuals of the life they could have lived, leading to immense regret.
Paragraph 3 - Scrooge’s transformation
Finally, Scrooge’s redemption illustrates that isolation can be overcome. After seeing the impact of his actions, he chooses to reconnect with others. He visits Fred, donates to charity, and becomes “as good a friend, as good a master, and as good a man as the good old city knew.” This repetition of “good” reinforces his sincerity and emphasises his transformation from isolated miser to generous member of society. Dickens makes the reader reflect on the fact that it is never too late to change, and that connection with others brings true happiness.
What is the all important structure and narrative perspective?
Tripartite structure (past, present, future) with omniscient narrator (reader unaware / aware)
