Minor characters

• Who is Fred in the novella?

  Fred is Scrooge’s nephew.
• How is Fred described in the novella?

  Fred is described as "ruddy and handsome".
• What effect does Fred's description have on the reader?

  It causes the reader to warm to the fresh and youthful atmosphere that Fred introduces.
• What does Dickens symbolize with the motif of light associated with Fred?

  Light symbolizes innocence and goodness.
• How does Fred's character contribute to the novella?

  Fred embodies traits of innocence and goodness, making him an exemplary character.
• What is a defining feature of Fred's character throughout the novella?

  Fred maintains his optimistic outlook and positive traits.
• How does Fred respond to Scrooge's ill-mannered behavior?

  He vows to keep visiting his uncle "year after year" to try and change his attitude.
• What role does Fred play in the context of Scrooge's character development?

  Fred adds a sense of stability within the novella, highlighting Scrooge's transformation.
• How is Fred presented in relation to Scrooge?

  Fred is presented as a foil to Scrooge, contrasting his character to emphasize certain qualities.
• What does the juxtaposition of Fred and Scrooge's characters achieve in the novella?


  It emphasizes Fred's virtue and makes Scrooge's dismal attitude appear worse.
• How does Dickens use the setting to contrast Fred's character?

  He contrasts the bleak and miserable descriptions of the setting with the "glow" that Fred brings.
• What phrase illustrates Scrooge's apathetic attitude?

  "No warmth could warm him no wintery weather chill him."
• What does the term "tight-fisted" suggest about Scrooge?

  It suggests that he is selfish and does not engage in philanthropy.
• What is Scrooge's infamous catchphrase?

  "Bah Humbug."
• What does the metaphor "solitary as an oyster" reveal about Scrooge?

  It illustrates that Scrooge likes to keep to himself and isolates himself socially.
• How does Fred's empathy towards Scrooge manifest in his words?

  Fred expresses that he is sorry for Scrooge and couldn't be angry with him.
• How is Fred characterized in terms of generosity?

  He is described as having "extraordinary kindness."
• What does Fred represent in the context of the novella?

  Fred represents joy and the Christmas spirit.
• How does Dickens use Fred's Christmas party to highlight Scrooge's character?

  Fred's party emphasizes Scrooge's isolation as he stands outside looking in.
• Who is Fanny in relation to Scrooge?

  Fanny is Scrooge’s younger sister.
• What does Fanny represent in the novella?

  Fanny represents love, youth, and optimism.
• How does Fanny embody the Christmas spirit?

  She tells Scrooge they will be "together all Christmas long, and have the merriest time in all the world."
• What does Fanny's character reveal about Scrooge's past?

  It reveals that Scrooge was not always someone who hated Christmas.
• How does Fanny's character humanize Scrooge?

  Fanny's affection shows positive and genuine emotion from Scrooge.
• What is the significance of Fanny's excessive display of love towards Scrooge?

  It warms the reader to Scrooge’s character and reminds him of his affectionate past.
• What theme does Dickens highlight through Fanny's character?

  He highlights the importance of family within society.
• How does Fanny's repetition of "home" contribute to the theme of family?

  It emphasizes the value of family life and the importance of returning home.
• What does the revelation about Scrooge's father imply?

  It implies some form of domestic turmoil that may have contributed to Scrooge’s dismal attitude.
• How does Dickens use vagueness in Scrooge's family life descriptions?

  To prevent the reader from sympathizing with him too much and excusing his behavior.
• What does the quote about Scrooge's "mournful shaking of his head" imply?

  It implies that Scrooge was expecting to see his sister and is pained by her absence.
• What does the repetition in Fan's speech highlight?

  It highlights how important his return home is to the siblings.
• How does the description of Fan as a "delicate creature" contribute to her character?

  It elevates her character and suggests she is cherished and respected.
• What does Scrooge's unease in his mind indicate?

  It indicates that he has begun to reflect on his actions and relationships.
• Who are Ignorance and Want in the novella?

  They are two childlike beings that cling to the Ghost of Christmas Present.
• What do Ignorance and Want symbolize?

  They symbolize the issues that plague mankind, particularly poverty and social injustice.
• What is the purpose of Ignorance and Want in the novella?

  They show Scrooge the effects of poverty within society and serve as a warning to mankind.
• How does Scrooge relate to Ignorance and Want?

  Scrooge was a victim of ignorance and want, focusing on money due to his fear of poverty.
• What key themes do Ignorance and Want represent?

  Poverty and social injustice.
• How does the ignorance of the upper-class contribute to poverty?

  It causes the issue to be overlooked and develop further.
• What role does want and greed play in the context of Ignorance and Want?

  They prevent the upper-class from assisting those who need help.