Family

• How does Dickens use the theme of family in the novella?

  To popularise an emotional element to Christmas
• Why were readers receptive to Dickens' presentation of family?

  Ideas about family were changing in the Victorian era
• What does the theme of family embody according to Dickens?

  Joy, strength, and affection
• How does Scrooge's character contrast with the theme of family?

  He is the antithesis of joy and affection
• What does Scrooge acknowledge about family at Fred's party?

  He might have cultivated kindness with a loving family
• What type of family does Dickens portray with the Cratchits?

  A relatable presentation of the lower class
• What does Dickens convey about poverty through the Cratchit family?

  Poverty is not a barrier to happiness
• How does Dickens describe the Cratchit household on Christmas day?

  With joy and excitement despite struggles
• What does Tiny Tim's funeral reveal about the Cratchit family?

  Their unity and love despite loss
• How does Scrooge's death contrast with Tiny Tim's funeral?

  Scrooge is unwept and uncared for
• What does Dickens imply about family through minor characters?

  Family should be interwoven into everyone's lives
• What does the simile comparing home to "heaven" signify?

  The great power family can have
• How does Fanny's absence affect Scrooge?

  It profoundly impacts his character
• What realization does Scrooge come to when he sees Belle with her children?

  Family is more important than money
• What does Scrooge question about having children?

  What it would be like to be called father