marley

• Marley’s Ghost is the first apparition who appears to Scrooge, warning him of the consequences of his sinful behavior in the afterlife
• Dickens establishes the friendship between Scrooge and Marley, highlighting their time-honored relationship and likening their characters, reflecting Marley's isolation and suffering onto Scrooge
• Marley outlines the structure of the novella by warning Scrooge of the Three Spirits that will visit him, establishing a timeline of events and adding a sense of structure to the chaotic supernatural events Scrooge experiences
• Marley's Ghost represents the Christian belief system of heaven and hell, in purgatory due to his own actions during life, suffering as a direct consequence of his attitude towards others
• Marley's character serves to introduce religious and supernatural themes, establish religious justice, and act as a deterrent by exemplifying the repercussions Scrooge will face if he fails to change
• Marley's character acts as a catalyst for Scrooge's change, instilling fear in him and offering him a chance at redemption
• The relationship between Scrooge and Marley is portrayed as vital, with Marley being dependent on Scrooge, emphasizing the importance of companionship even for miserly individuals
• Key Quotes:

  • "I wear the chains I forged in life" holds a double meaning, both literal and figurative, reflecting Marley's eternal captivity due to his past actions
  • "no rest, no peace. Incessant torture of remorse" creates tension and mirrors Marley's trapped feelings in purgatory
  • "Mankind was my business" reflects Dickens' ideas on social responsibility and the importance of being socially conscious