Poverty & Social injustice

• What thematic focus underpins the novella 'A Christmas Carol'?

  Poverty and social injustice
• How does the introduction of charity collectors in 'A Christmas Carol' set the tone for the novella?

  It makes readers aware of the "poor and destitute" in society who are suffering "greatly"
• What is Dickens' social commitment as reflected in his work?

  He believed in using literature to convey ethical and political statements
• How does Dickens convey the theme of poverty and social injustice through his characters?

  Characters serve as examples for readers to emulate or be warned against, evoking sympathy or distaste
• What transformation does Scrooge undergo in relation to social injustice?


  He changes his attitudes towards social injustice after his redemption
• What does Dickens suggest is essential for society through the fate of Tiny Tim?

  Social responsibility
• How does Dickens use the setting of London to comment on poverty and social injustice?


  He describes it as filled with "fog and darkness" and "misanthropic ice" to reflect the attitudes of its inhabitants
• What does the description of an "obscure" area of London as "wretched" and filled with "filth" signify?

  It reflects the economic and environmental problems caused by the Industrial Revolution
• How does Dickens challenge stereotypes about the impoverished in society?

  By showing that despite their conditions, the lower classes maintain an "air of cheerfulness" and "laughed heartily"
• What do the characters Ignorance and Want represent in 'A Christmas Carol'?

  They symbolize the need for social responsibility and the abandonment of the poor in society
• How does Dickens provoke a powerful response from readers regarding Ignorance and Want?

  By detailing that they are children, evoking a protective instinct
• What role does Old Joe play in 'A Christmas Carol'?

  He exposes the harsh realities of poverty and suggests that poverty breeds crime
• How does Dickens characterize Scrooge's Malthusian attitude?

  He uses it to highlight the isolation that results from such views, particularly in Scrooge's death
• What does the dynamic between Bob Cratchit and Scrooge symbolize?

  It serves as a metaphor for class relations and the power dynamics between the rich and the poor
• How does Scrooge's transformation affect his relationship with Bob Cratchit?

  He raises Bob's salary and tries to assist his struggling family
• What does Mrs. Cratchit's worry about Christmas dinner reveal about poverty?

  It highlights the lengths people go to in order to feed their families, illustrating the harsh realities of poverty
• How does Dickens portray the issue of poverty in 'A Christmas Carol'?

  He presents it as a multifaceted issue that causes various problems and should be prioritized and addressed