Stave 1

• How is Scrooge described in the text?

  A squeezing, wrenching, grasping, scraping, clutching, covetous old sinner
• What does the description of Scrooge as "hard and sharp as flint" imply?

  It emphasizes his unyielding and unforgiving character
• What does the simile "solitary as an oyster" reveal about Scrooge?

  It portrays him as isolated and withdrawn
• What phrase does Scrooge use to dismiss Christmas?

  Bah! Humbug!
• What does Scrooge's question about prisons and workhouses reveal?

  It expresses his indifference to the suffering of the poor
• What does Scrooge mean by saying the poor should "decrease the surplus population"?

  He believes the poor are a burden on society
• What does Scrooge's statement "I am sorry, with all my heart" suggest?

  It indicates a flicker of remorse
• What does Scrooge's command to Bob Cratchit to "Make up the fire" illustrate?

  His lack of empathy and focus on profit
• How does the description of Tiny Tim's family contrast with Scrooge?

  It emphasizes Scrooge's coldness and isolation
• What does the line "No warmth could warm, no wintry weather chill him" suggest about Scrooge's emotional state?

  It highlights his emotional detachment