Topics for Discussion
1. To what degree is Scrooge a comedic character? What elements make him humorous?
2. Is Tiny Tim a compelling character in this narrative? Would he be credible outside of the context Dickens has created?
3. Some critics argue that Scrooge's story is overly sentimental. Do you concur? Do you think people in Dickens's era perceived the story differently compared to how people view it today?
4. Which of the Christmas spirits has the most significant impact on Scrooge? Why?
5. The story starts with the narrator confirming that Scrooge's former partner Marley is dead. The climax, where Scrooge undergoes a transformation, occurs in a graveyard. Why does a story renowned for celebrating Christmas joys place such a strong focus on death?
6. Describe Scrooge's manner of speaking before and after he decides to embrace Christmas. How has his speech changed?
7. The Ghost of Christmas Present, initially associated with all the abundant joys of Christmas, has a surprising revelation for Scrooge at the end of his visit that seems out of character. What is it?
8. Dickens suggests that Scrooge's isolation is a form of torment. How does Scrooge doom himself to this fate before his transformation?
9. Some readers find Scrooge's transformation hard to believe. Has Dickens adequately prepared us for this change? Do you find it convincing?
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