Structure

• A novella is traditionally longer than a short story but not as long as a traditional novel
• Novellas often have a moral or lesson that the writer is trying to teach the reader
• Novellas often have a protagonist who learns the same lesson
• A Christmas Carol focuses on the main character, Ebenezer Scrooge, learning the benefits of being a responsible citizen and caring for his family and society members
• A novella is an allegory, a simplistic metaphor or Christian story of redemption
• Scrooge represents the wealthy and aristocratic members of society who are often uncaring towards those with less money
• Fred represents the middle class who are more generous and prioritize others over themselves, particularly at Christmas
• Ignorance and Want are two characters presented by the ghost of Christmas Present, representing uneducated members of society who may be exploited as workers
• Dickens argues that educating children can help them earn a fair wage and support themselves