Context

• What context will you gain from this video?

  Context for A Christmas Carol essays
• What was introduced by the 1834 Poor Law?

  The workhouses were introduced
• How were the workhouses perceived initially?

  They seemed like a good idea
• What was the main purpose of the workhouses?

  To provide food and shelter for the poor
• What conditions did the poor face in the workhouses?

  They faced grueling and dangerous conditions
• How many people died in the workhouses between 1846 and 1851?

  250,000 people died
• What does Scrooge's ignorance represent?

  Ignorance of the Victorian upper class
• How does Scrooge advocate for the workhouses?

  He believes they reduce poverty
• What does the term "microcosm" mean in this context?

  A small representation of a larger idea
• Who does Tiny Tim represent in the context of the workhouses?

  Innocence and vulnerability of children
• What do the characters Ignorance and Want symbolize?

  Exploitation of children in poverty
• What does Marley say about the common welfare?

  The common welfare was his business
• How does Marley contrast with Scrooge?

  Marley advocates for charity and care
• What does Dickens illustrate through Scrooge's character?

  Upper class ignorance causes poor suffering
• How can you impress your teacher with your essay?

  Include facts about workhouse deaths
• What are the key themes linking Scrooge to the 1834 Poor Law?

  • Scrooge's ignorance of the poor's suffering
  • Advocacy for workhouses as a solution
  • Representation of Victorian upper class attitudes
  • Contrast with Marley's view on charity
• How does Dickens convey his message about the poor in A Christmas Carol?

  • Critiques the 1834 Poor Law
  • Highlights dehumanizing conditions of workhouses
  • Uses Scrooge as a microcosm of ignorance
  • Illustrates the impact of upper class attitudes on the poor
• How can you structure an essay linking Scrooge to the workhouses?

  1. Introduce Scrooge's character
  2. Explain the 1834 Poor Law
  3. Discuss workhouse conditions
  4. Analyze Scrooge's ignorance and its implications
  5. Conclude with Dickens's critique of society
• What is the significance of Tiny Tim in the narrative?

  • Represents innocence and vulnerability
  • Highlights the plight of children in poverty
  • Symbolizes the consequences of societal neglect
• What role do Ignorance and Want play in the story?

  • Symbols of neglected and exploited children
  • Represent the consequences of poverty
  • Illustrate the need for social responsibility