Isolation

• Who is the main character in "A Christmas Carol"?

  Scrooge
• How does Scrooge contribute to his own loneliness?

  He ostracises himself from society
• What does the description of Scrooge as "solitary as an oyster" suggest?

  It indicates his deep isolation
• What literary device is used in the phrase "secret and self contained and solitary as an oyster"?

  Sibilance
• What biblical allusion is made in Scrooge's description?

  Reference to the snake in the Garden of Eden
• What does the polysyndetic listing in Scrooge's description achieve?

  It emphasizes the adjectives used
• How does Victorian culture contrast with Scrooge's behavior?

  People were cordial, but Scrooge isolated himself
• What does Fred invite Scrooge to do?

  Dine with them
• What does Scrooge's eventual acceptance of Fred's invitation signify?

  A dramatic change in his character
• What does Dickens suggest about isolation through Scrooge's character arc?

  It is never too late to reconnect
• What is Dickens' socialist ideology regarding isolation?

  Everyone should be valued and included
• How does Scrooge's childhood contribute to his isolation?

  He was neglected by his friends
• What does Scrooge's reaction to seeing his younger self reveal?

  He feels vulnerable and emotional
• What does Belle's statement about the "idol" signify?

  Scrooge prioritizes money over relationships
• How does Dickens portray the impact of greed on Scrooge's life?

  It leads to his isolation
• What capitalist ideology does Scrooge represent?

  Focus on self rather than community
• How does Scrooge's view of life as "business" reflect his character?

  His life revolves around money and greed