How does Dickens use humor in Scrooge's interactions, such as his comments to Marley's ghost, and why is this important for the reader's engagement with Scrooge's transformation?

Dickens uses wordplay and puns to make Scrooge less one-dimensional, encouraging the reader to engage with him and appreciate his transformation.

When Scrooge revisits his old school with the Ghost of Christmas Past, what contrasting words are used to describe him, and how does this develop the reader's empathy?

The juxtaposition of 'neglected' with 'friends' develops the reader's empathy by showing that Scrooge's isolation was not always his choice.

Reward and the Road Back

8th Grade•45 minutes•CCSS CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.8.3

Learning Objective

I can analyze how a character responds to a reward and the challenges they face afterward.

Key Concepts

Dickens uses the simile ‘Hard and sharp as flint’ to describe Scrooge, implying a potential for a spark of warmth within him.

Scrooge is described as ‘solitary as an oyster’, suggesting a tough exterior but also hinting at something worthwhile to be discovered within.

Scrooge's transformation begins when he shows empathy towards the Ghost of Christmas Past, realizing that relationships, not money, bring happiness.

Practice Questions

This lesson includes 10 practice questions to reinforce learning.

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1. At the beginning of the novella, what does the repetition of the word 'sole' emphasize about Scrooge and Marley?

2. The simile 'Hard and sharp as flint' is used to describe Scrooge. Explain what this suggests about his character and what potential might exist within him.

3. What does the simile 'solitary as an oyster' suggest about Scrooge's character?

...and 7 more questions

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Ebeneezer Scrooge: Character Analysis - 'A Christmas Carol'

Mr Bruff

Learning Objective

Key Concepts

Practice Questions

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