Authorial intent- characters

• Scrooge

  Embodies the consequences of greed and the transformative power of redemption. Shows Victorian audience that they need to change and its never too late.
• Marley


  Human embodiment of capitalism, sin and purgatory.

  Represents consequences of a life lived without love and compassion.

  Serves as a warning to Scrooge.
• Bob Cratchit


  Human embodiment of the poor. Dickens highlights the struggles of the working class and the importance of compassion. The Cratchits challenge Victorian notions of the poor as idle and ignorant.
• Tiny Tim


  Symbolises innocence and vulnerability serving as a catalyst for Scrooges change of heart. Tiny Tim highlights the mistreatment of children in Victorian England such as child labour. He echoes romantic ideas of protecting children
• The ghosts (collective)

  Collectively guide Scrooge on his journey of redemption wich emphasises importance of change.
• Ghost of Christmas past 


  Symbol of nostalgia and reflection. Guides Scrooge through his past. This evokes sympathy. Emphasises the importance of learning from past
• Ghost of Christmas present 


  Metaphorical construction of generosity and abundance. Urges Scrooge to embrace empathy. Symbol of christmas
• Ghost of christmas yet to come


  An ominous harbinger of fate. Embodies fear of unknown and consequences of own actions. Compels Scrooge to confront his own choices ultimately inspiring him to change his ways before its to late. Links to Grim Reaper in Greek mythology.
• Fred 


  Human embodiment of Christmas cheer and familial warmth. Serves as an antithesis to Scrooge's miserliness illustrating the transformative power of love and compassion.