Fred Flashcards
(7 cards)
Overview
Dickens uses the character of Fred in A Christmas Carol as a vehicle to highlight the importance of generosity and kindness towards others. Fred is portrayed as a particularly positive, compassionate and considerate individual who embodies the teachings of the Bible; a detail which would have resonated with Dickens’ predominately Christian readership. Fred acts as the direct antithesis to Scrooge’s initial character. Dickens may have created such a contrasting depiction in order to bring attention to the capacity and need for every individual to show kindness, regardless of their social status.
Beginning quotes
“He was all in glow, his face was ruddy and handsome; his eyes sparkled.”
“A merry Christmas, Uncle! God save you!”
“What right have you to be dismal? What reason have you to be morose? You’re rich enough.”
“I want nothing from you; I ask nothing of you; why cannot we be friends?”
Middle quotes
“When Scrooge’s nephew laughed… Scrooge’s niece… laughed as heartily as he.”
“However his offences carry their own punishment, and I have nothing to say against him.”
“His wealth is of no use to him. He don’t do any good with it.”
“I mean to give him the same chance every year, whether he likes it or not, for I pity him.”
Ending quotes
“Bob told them of the extraordinary kindness of Mr. Scrooge’s nephew, whom he had scarcely seen but once.”
“For the sake of anything he might be able to do for us, so much as for his kind way”
“Heartily sorry, he said, for your good wife. If I can be of service to you in any way…”
‘Why, bless my soul!’ cried Fred, ‘who’s that?’”
Beginning opening
At the beginning of the novella, Fred is presented as the cheerful and
In the beginning of the novella, Fred is presented as the cheerful and warm-hearted foil to Scrooge, embodying the festive and generous spirit of Christmas. His open-heartedness and willingness to connect with his uncle show his generosity and reflect Dickens’ ideal version of the Christmas spirit.
Middle opening
As the novella progresses, Fred continues to show his good-natured personality through his joyful behaviour and forgiving attitude. He doesn’t hold a grudge against Scrooge and remains hopeful that he will one day change. Fred’s values and commitment to family highlight his compassion and help present an alternative way of living that is more fulfilling and loving than Scrooge’s isolated lifestyle.
Ending opening
As the novella comes to a close, Fred’s kindness and warmth are recognised by other characters, showing the wide-reaching impact of his generous spirit. His welcoming attitude and willingness to support others—regardless of social status or past behaviour—reinforce his role as a symbol of goodwill. Fred helps to complete Scrooge’s redemption by accepting him with open arms, showing that positive change is always possible.
