Jacob Marley

• Who is first referenced in the opening lines of the novella "A Christmas Carol"?

  Jacob Marley
• What does Dickens convey by stating "Marley was dead, to begin with"?


  A sense of finality regarding Marley's character
• How does the declaration that Marley has been dead for seven years affect Scrooge's experience?


  It sets up the scene for Scrooge's shock and anguish when Marley appears
• What is Scrooge's relationship to Marley as described in the novella?


  Scrooge was Marley's sole executor, administrator, friend, and mourner
• What type of relationship does Dickens present between Scrooge and Marley?


  A relationship merely associated with business rather than affection
• What does Dickens illustrate about Scrooge's feelings towards Marley's death?


  Scrooge was not dreadfully cut up by the sad event, indicating a shallow relationship
• How is Marley described when he appears as a ghost?

  As a terrifying figure condemned to wander in heavy chains
• What do the chains Marley wears symbolize?

  His obsession with business and money during his life
• How does Marley compare to Scrooge in terms of character traits?


  Both were once materialistic and self-centered, but Marley is remorseful
• What does Marley acknowledge should have been his business?

  Charity, mercy, forbearance, and benevolence
• What is the purpose of Marley’s ghost in the novella?

  To serve as an allegorical warning against greed and avarice
• What does Marley mean when he says, "I wear the chain I forged in life"?


  His predicament is a result of his own actions
• What warning does Marley give to Scrooge and the reader?


  Everyone is responsible for their actions and will be held accountable
• What supernatural element does Marley introduce to the plot?


  He introduces a supernatural and religious element
• How can Marley be seen in relation to Christian beliefs?


  As symbolic of Heaven, Hell, and repentance in a purgatory state
• What is one of Marley's purposes in the novella?

  To save Scrooge from a similar fate
• Can Marley force Scrooge to change his ways?


  No, Scrooge must alter his ways himself
• How might Marley be viewed in terms of sympathy?


  He could appear selfless in his motive to help Scrooge despite causing his own suffering
• What role does Marley play in Scrooge's transformation?


  He acts as a catalyst for Scrooge's transformation
• What effect does Marley's visit have on Scrooge?


  It prompts Scrooge's desire to change due to a "terrible sensation"