VCE Stuff => VCE English Studies => VCE Subjects + Help => VCE English & EAL => Topic started by: Yacoubb on December 21, 2013, 04:11:19 pm
Title: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on December 21, 2013, 04:11:19 pm
I've made this discussion thread so anyone who is completing A Christmas Carol can add sections they wish to discuss about & we can provided our own analyses to help ourselves and each other out! :)
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: brenden on December 24, 2013, 06:46:30 pm
Great idea. I'm actually studying ACC over these holidays for the new AN resource so I'm quite interested to see what VCE peeps are getting from ACC on their preliminary readings.
What I find particularly interesting after my first reading is the Narrator's personality (or characterisation, if you will ;) ) and the style of narration.
I'd like to offer my interpretation and see what people think, but I'm obviously not the one with the exam in under eleven months from now. So, some questions to get your thinkers going, and if we get a few attempts at answering the questions/get a discussion going I'll chime in!
- What type of narrator does Dickens use in A Christmas Carol?
- Why might Dickens have created such a narrator? And, closely related to this question: what effect does this narration have?
- In what way does the narrative style allow Dickens to better achieve what could be his overall purpose in ACC?
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Cort on December 28, 2013, 06:47:16 pm
I've noticed Dickens has a subtle way to present his political contention in the story -- but I wonder if analysing that would be beneficial in any regards for the text response?
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on December 28, 2013, 07:22:29 pm
Great idea. I'm actually studying ACC over these holidays for the new AN resource so I'm quite interested to see what VCE peeps are getting from ACC on their preliminary readings.
What I find particularly interesting after my first reading is the Narrator's personality (or characterisation, if you will ;) ) and the style of narration.
I'd like to offer my interpretation and see what people think, but I'm obviously not the one with the exam in under eleven months from now. So, some questions to get your thinkers going, and if we get a few attempts at answering the questions/get a discussion going I'll chime in!
- What type of narrator does Dickens use in A Christmas Carol?
- Why might Dickens have created such a narrator? And, closely related to this question: what effect does this narration have?
- In what way does the narrative style allow Dickens to better achieve what could be his overall purpose in ACC?
This is actually something that I haven't really paid attention to; but its great you've mentioned it now because next time I read it (which will be in the coming days), I'll take a look at that.
I've noticed Dickens has a subtle way to present his political contention in the story -- but I wonder if analysing that would be beneficial in any regards for the text response?
I think it would definitely be useful to look at the political contention. Actually, I find that looking at the society Dickens portrays in the novella very important to analyse too. A society that is immersed in the Christmas spirit, and a society that affirms in Christmas as a season to be merry, irrespective of whether they are financially able or disabled. Does Dickens do this to demonstrate the goodness of humanity, or does Dickens actually do this to show the goodness of humanity as a backdrop whilst the reader ponders over Ebenzer Scrooge, who is miserable and morose amongst this jolly society?
Something to consider :)
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Cort on December 28, 2013, 10:49:10 pm
I think it would definitely be useful to look at the political contention. Actually, I find that looking at the society Dickens portrays in the novella very important to analyse too. A society that is immersed in the Christmas spirit, and a society that affirms in Christmas as a season to be merry, irrespective of whether they are financially able or disabled. Does Dickens do this to demonstrate the goodness of humanity, or does Dickens actually do this to show the goodness of humanity as a backdrop whilst the reader ponders over Ebenzer Scrooge, who is miserable and morose amongst this jolly society?
Something to consider :)
Interesting points you raised, actually. Think you can view it as Dickens' suggestion of what is possible if anyone -- especially towards the wealthy middle class (as many of his writings were directed towards)-- had considered or cared about the pauper strata? I mean, I think it's more about the idea of a possibility of having a sense of good will, and moreover, portraying the idea of being an 'ideal' Christian if you transformed your actions like Scrooge. The goodness of humanity? Seems a bit to far fetched as ( I find it) a bit too idealistic. Mind you, Dickens is already hardened with a strict social ideas after his experience with poverty during his youth.
Or we are just over analysing it and Dickens just wanted to write a good Christmas story.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: brenden on December 28, 2013, 11:13:15 pm
Some context:
Back in the day, you didn't really have myriads and myriads of books to choose from. I walk into any given bookstore today and I know <1% of the authors published - and I read a lot more than your average person. Two hundred years ago, it wasn't so, and the vast, vast majority of the English population would have either read Charles Dickens, had Charles Dickens read to them, or generally know what was going on (as I can glean information about GoT despite not watching it). With his work, Dickens had an opportunity to reach almost the entirety of the wealthy classes (I just mean the people that could afford to read). I don't think it would have been lost on him that he had a large platform from which he could encourage social change. Indeed, some of his work could have prompted some changes in the legal system (do yourselves a favour and never read Bleak House). Taking those things into account, my interpretation of ACC is as if Dickens sat down and thought "hmm... how can I get rich people to give stuff to poor people without getting them mad in the process?"
There would also be some that will tell you that Charles Dickens shaped the modern Christmas through his depictions. Perhaps it wasn't so commercialist and was once a minimally strict religious holiday? I wouldn't know... I wasn't alive, but it makes you wonder!
Is he trying to demonstrate the goodness of humanity, or encourage the goodness of humanity?
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on December 28, 2013, 11:26:47 pm
Back in the day, you didn't really have myriads and myriads of books to choose from. I walk into any given bookstore today and I know <1% of the authors published - and I read a lot more than your average person. Two hundred years ago, it wasn't so, and the vast, vast majority of the English population would have either read Charles Dickens, had Charles Dickens read to them, or generally know what was going on (as I can glean information about GoT despite not watching it). With his work, Dickens had an opportunity to reach almost the entirety of the wealthy classes (I just mean the people that could afford to read). I don't think it would have been lost on him that he had a large platform from which he could encourage social change. Indeed, some of his work could have prompted some changes in the legal system (do yourselves a favour and never read Bleak House). Taking those things into account, my interpretation of ACC is as if Dickens sat down and thought "hmm... how can I get rich people to give stuff to poor people without getting them mad in the process?"
There would also be some that will tell you that Charles Dickens shaped the modern Christmas through his depictions. Perhaps it wasn't so commercialist and was once a minimally strict religious holiday? I wouldn't know... I wasn't alive, but it makes you wonder!
Is he trying to demonstrate the goodness of humanity, or encourage the goodness of humanity?
Thanks for that! I think encouraging the goodness of humanity would be more like it. The metamorphosis of Scrooge and his awakening to the reality of how his attitude impacts not only upon his prosperity, but the prosperity of an entire people, an entire society, exemplifies Dicken's message of the goodness of humanity being paramount.
I'm thoroughly enjoying this text! Thoroughly enjoying English! This is the text I probably will study for the exam, so I'm going to really analyse it.
Interesting points you raised, actually. Think you can view it as Dickens' suggestion of what is possible if anyone -- especially towards the wealthy middle class (as many of his writings were directed towards)-- had considered or cared about the pauper strata? I mean, I think it's more about the idea of a possibility of having a sense of good will, and moreover, portraying the idea of being an 'ideal' Christian if you transformed your actions like Scrooge. The goodness of humanity? Seems a bit to far fetched as ( I find it) a bit too idealistic. Mind you, Dickens is already hardened with a strict social ideas after his experience with poverty during his youth.
Or we are just over analysing it and Dickens just wanted to write a good Christmas story.
As Brencookie mentioned, I think Dickens' message really was intended to the wealthy class of his time. The spectres of Christmas Past, Christmas Present and Christmas Yet to Come are vivid representations of the need to come into contact with one's past (through their life-experience), their present (through witnessing what is occuring around them) and delving into the future (exploring what the ramifications of one's actions have on their future and the future of those around them).
I still think the encouragement of goodness in humanity is being reitterated by Dickens through this novella. By the novella's resolution, Scrooge has redeemed himself; he raises Bob Cratchit's salary, promises to assist the Cratchits with Tiny Tim, attends the dinner party hosted by his nephew, Fred, and has the Christmas spirit within him replenished. Only through replenishing the goodness within him, is Scrooge able to find peace and redeem himself, despite his ignorance initially leading to his imminent demise, on Christmas day.
Just throwing ideas around haha :) I love this thread!
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: brenden on December 28, 2013, 11:33:43 pm
As an extension to what I said earlier: social criticism was indeed a fair whack of Dickens' work. Let's consider ACC on a most basic level. It's 100 pages long, divided into fourfive? parts, with a pretty even structure. It isn't particularly difficult to read (by Dickens standards; I'm not trying to put down anyone who struggles with Dickens - I've been there!)... its narration is relatively endearing (not quite what I'm getting at with my first lot of questions if anyone wants to have a go). I mean, as far as Dickens and 'literary' go, ACC isn't that high on the list. It's accessible, both to us but especially to a Victorian audience. We'd be really, really safe in assuming he did this deliberately. Why might he write this particular tale as one of his most accessible (and perhaps enjoyable?)
Edit: And yeah Yacoubb - definitely keep it coming with lofting around ideas! This is a great thread.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on January 11, 2014, 09:08:13 pm
I've got some new topics of discussion:
(a) Dicken's intended audience. It is fair to say that Dickens has written his festive novella A Christmas Carol to the middle-class of the Victorian society he lived in. Through the character of Ebenzer Scrooge, the archetype of miser and misanthropy, Dickens is able to reitterate the reforms that need to be made within the Victorian middle-class, primarily involving an enhancement in the treatment of the poor. Furthermore, Dickens' portrayal of the Cratchits as a jolly family, despite Bob Cratchit's meagre salary, the absence of his daughter Martha because of her work, and having a crippled son (Tiny Tim), exemplifies the fact that the middle-class must accept the poor, who possess the prosperity that the wealthy can only dream of.
(b) Time I think the element of time is paramount in this narrative. The phantom of Scrooge's former business partner, Jacob Marley, warns Scrooge that he will be visited by three spectres (Ghost of Christmas Past, Ghost of Christmas Present and Ghost of Christmas Yet to come) on three separate, consecutive nights. However, following the supernatural intervention, where Scrooge metamorphoses from a miser misanthropist to a giving philanthropist, he learns that the phantoms visited him in the one night, between Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. This is quite significant; does this insinuate the importance of time, and how Ebenezer Scrooge must mend his ways before his redemption ultimately becomes impossible.
(c) Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come Out of the three phantoms, the pall of gloom that hangs over the skillfully depicted phantom of Christmas Yet to Come is the most intriguing and discomforting. The decorum and enigma that cloaks the phantom is intended to allow Scrooge to identify his failures alone, and also positions the reader to accept Scrooge's failures, and promise rectifications, in the absence of an omniscient, intervening narrator.
^^ Just some points for discussion. And a little bump to this thread!
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: 2NE1 on January 16, 2014, 12:04:52 pm
What are some construction elements he uses in Stave 5?
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on January 16, 2014, 01:36:44 pm
What are some construction elements he uses in Stave 5?
The exaggerations in Scrooge's prosperity! He is boisterous and jumps around happily, almost like when he was a boy in his youth. Dickens intentionally does this to exemplify the metamorphosis of Scrooge from a miser, misanthropist, to a giving philanthropist. Also, Ebenezer Scrooge increases Bob Cratchit's salary, takes it upon himself to care for Tiny Tim, and visits his nephew, Fred, for Christmas. Stave 5 demonstrates how critical time is. Scrooge is determined to mend his ways and rectify his errors momentarily after his journey with the three spectres comes to an end.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on February 02, 2014, 09:45:05 pm
Hi guys. So I was doing a little background of this novella, looking at his this novella is a critique of the Victorian society of Dickens' time.
When John Dickens, the father of Charles Dickens, was imprisoned, Charles' mother arranged for seven of his siblings to go into jail with their father. Charles, however, lived outside the prison and worked in a blacking factory, pasting labels on the bottles of shoe polish. During these few months of hard labour, he witnessed the poverty and hardships endured by the underclass.
Following the industrial revolution, society's attitude to agriculture, social and cultural aspects of life changed. The middle-class of Victorian society became more wealthy, whilst conditions for the poor and destitute worsened. The middle-class began to acquire Malthusian and Benthamite ideologies, which further compelled them to agree with the Poor Laws, and assignment of the poor in work houses that were in poor condition.
Witnessing the poverty played a paramount role in forming the character of Dickens. The novella, A Christmas Carol, is intended to draw the attention of the middle-class to the plight and mistreatment of the poor. Through Ebenezer Scrooge's transformation, Dickens insinuates that if one individual is able to alter their perspectives and address the plight of the poor, then society as a whole is able to do so. Through the medium of this novella, Dickens stealthily combines a somewhat indirect descriptions of the hardships faced by the poor, with a heart-rendering and sentimental celebration of the Christmas season.
Benthamite philosophies: the belief in "the greatest happiness of the greatest people". Malthusian economics: the belief in disease and famine being natural intervention to decrease surplus populations.
Thought we could start a discussion on this. Thanks
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: nhmn0301 on February 02, 2014, 09:59:54 pm
Hi guys. So I was doing a little background of this novella, looking at his this novella is a critique of the Victorian society of Dickens' time.
When John Dickens, the father of Charles Dickens, was imprisoned, Charles' mother arranged for seven of his siblings to go into jail with their father. Charles, however, lived outside the prison and worked in a blacking factory, pasting labels on the bottles of shoe polish. During these few months of hard labour, he witnessed the poverty and hardships endured by the underclass.
Following the industrial revolution, society's attitude to agriculture, social and cultural aspects of life changed. The middle-class of Victorian society became more wealthy, whilst conditions for the poor and destitute worsened. The middle-class began to acquire Malthusian and Benthamite ideologies, which further compelled them to agree with the Poor Laws, and assignment of the poor in work houses that were in poor condition.
Witnessing the poverty played a paramount role in forming the character of Dickens. The novella, A Christmas Carol, is intended to draw the attention of the middle-class to the plight and mistreatment of the poor. Through Ebenezer Scrooge's transformation, Dickens insinuates that if one individual is able to alter their perspectives and address the plight of the poor, then society as a whole is able to do so. Through the medium of this novella, Dickens stealthily combines a somewhat indirect descriptions of the hardships faced by the poor, with a heart-rendering and sentimental celebration of the Christmas season.
Benthamite philosophies: the belief in "the greatest happiness of the greatest people". Malthusian economics: the belief in disease and famine being natural intervention to decrease surplus populations.
Thought we could start a discussion on this. Thanks
Not so sure if this is related to your previous post, but do you think Want and Ignorance have a strong link with the novella's background? And can anybody help me to explain a bit about these 2 children? I'm not so sure I get that part.... Thanks heaps!
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on February 02, 2014, 10:05:10 pm
Not so sure if this is related to your previous post, but do you think Want and Ignorance have a strong link with the novella's background? And can anybody help me to explain a bit about these 2 children? I'm not so sure I get that part.... Thanks heaps!
"This Boy is Ignorance. This Girl is Want" - A Christmas Carol, Stave 3.
The backdrop of the novella looks at the aftermath of the Industrial Revolution, and the social and cultural toll it has taken on society, alongside the economic one. As a result of the rich becoming wealthier, they become more compelled to embark on the pursuit of wealth, as portrayed by Ebenezer Scrooge (the novella's protagonist). Ignorance and want have very strong correlation, and as told by the Ghost of Christmas Present, "doom" is printed on the forehead of the boy, demonstrating that ignorance ultimately leads to doom.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Cort on February 03, 2014, 12:55:11 am
Hi guys. So I was doing a little background of this novella, looking at his this novella is a critique of the Victorian society of Dickens' time.
When John Dickens, the father of Charles Dickens, was imprisoned, Charles' mother arranged for seven of his siblings to go into jail with their father. Charles, however, lived outside the prison and worked in a blacking factory, pasting labels on the bottles of shoe polish. During these few months of hard labour, he witnessed the poverty and hardships endured by the underclass.
Following the industrial revolution, society's attitude to agriculture, social and cultural aspects of life changed. The middle-class of Victorian society became more wealthy, whilst conditions for the poor and destitute worsened. The middle-class began to acquire Malthusian and Benthamite ideologies, which further compelled them to agree with the Poor Laws, and assignment of the poor in work houses that were in poor condition.
Witnessing the poverty played a paramount role in forming the character of Dickens. The novella, A Christmas Carol, is intended to draw the attention of the middle-class to the plight and mistreatment of the poor. Through Ebenezer Scrooge's transformation, Dickens insinuates that if one individual is able to alter their perspectives and address the plight of the poor, then society as a whole is able to do so. Through the medium of this novella, Dickens stealthily combines a somewhat indirect descriptions of the hardships faced by the poor, with a heart-rendering and sentimental celebration of the Christmas season.
Benthamite philosophies: the belief in "the greatest happiness of the greatest people". Malthusian economics: the belief in disease and famine being natural intervention to decrease surplus populations.
Thought we could start a discussion on this. Thanks
You've pretty much hit the nail on the head (is that how the expression goes?). To expand just a teeny-wheeny bit further in the historical part - the middle class (doctors, lawyers, business men) became more predominant and influential as economics had shifted from agricultural subsistence towards more production based items. As a result of this, the nobility (gentry, aristocratic), whom usually held power by the magnitude of the land had decreased - land had played no profit in this 'industrial revolution'. The power the middle class gained- or could further gain - is evident by their actions in supporting and passing the Poor Law.
Hence, this is why I think you two already figured above, that Dickens primarily focuses this story to convince the middle class. Not only are they able to make changes, but they might be able to make positive changes, in hope, to create a better world. Furthermore, Dicken's association with friend, Thomas Carlyle (a predominant analysis into the French Revolution, with his book, The French Revolution: A History) might explain why Dickens wrote the way he did, on top of the experiences he has encountered in his childhood. I think it was the Insight Text Guide - that states that Dickens has some sort of belief himself, and through the hints of any business/political like parlance to the characteristic of Ebezener himself, he makes it quite clear: the rich should be responsible for the poor.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: mikehepro on February 03, 2014, 05:48:37 pm
Hi guys. So I was doing a little background of this novella, looking at his this novella is a critique of the Victorian society of Dickens' time.
When John Dickens, the father of Charles Dickens, was imprisoned, Charles' mother arranged for seven of his siblings to go into jail with their father. Charles, however, lived outside the prison and worked in a blacking factory, pasting labels on the bottles of shoe polish. During these few months of hard labour, he witnessed the poverty and hardships endured by the underclass.
Following the industrial revolution, society's attitude to agriculture, social and cultural aspects of life changed. The middle-class of Victorian society became more wealthy, whilst conditions for the poor and destitute worsened. The middle-class began to acquire Malthusian and Benthamite ideologies, which further compelled them to agree with the Poor Laws, and assignment of the poor in work houses that were in poor condition.
Witnessing the poverty played a paramount role in forming the character of Dickens. The novella, A Christmas Carol, is intended to draw the attention of the middle-class to the plight and mistreatment of the poor. Through Ebenezer Scrooge's transformation, Dickens insinuates that if one individual is able to alter their perspectives and address the plight of the poor, then society as a whole is able to do so. Through the medium of this novella, Dickens stealthily combines a somewhat indirect descriptions of the hardships faced by the poor, with a heart-rendering and sentimental celebration of the Christmas season.
Benthamite philosophies: the belief in "the greatest happiness of the greatest people". Malthusian economics: the belief in disease and famine being natural intervention to decrease surplus populations.
Thought we could start a discussion on this. Thanks
Very good research here. It is also to be noted that Dickens felt class and intellectual superiority when he was working in the shoes factory. He felt grief and humiliation when his father let him continue working even when he was released from the debtor's prision. Since then he had the psychological conflict which he both loved and demonized his father. I guess this might linked to how Scrooge is a money lender and have split personalities. Just some random facts. :d Oh and there's a few symbolism in the text. Tbh I actually really enjoyed reading A Christmas Carol.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: brenden on February 03, 2014, 06:11:46 pm
Sa-HOOOOOOOOOOOOO (so) much symbolism lels. (and metaphors etc)
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: charmanderp on February 03, 2014, 11:38:26 pm
Sa-HOOOOOOOOOOOOO (so) much symbolism lels. (and metaphors etc)
many symbolism. very metaphor.
I feel as though ACC is one of those texts that couldn't be appreciated in the time it was written/published. Only now can we look back and marvel at how well Charles Dickens has represented the historical social environment, as well as explored the moral state of people at the time.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: brenden on February 03, 2014, 11:54:52 pm
Not appreciated in the same sense that we can appreciate it, to be sure - but I think that's part of the novella's creative genius. The rich people weren't meant to feel attacked by the novella (or he would hardly have gotten the reaction he might have hoped for) - rather, it was written in a way that they might feel as if it were their own idea to feel guilty and start giving lol.
(I'm actually doing the powerpoint's for AN's vTextbook for ACC at the moment and my mind is so jelly) (I want to start a band called "Fezziwig's the Bad Guy" and we would play alternative-pop-rock. Our first song would be "iView your Values")
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on February 04, 2014, 12:04:27 am
Not appreciated in the same sense that we can appreciate it, to be sure - but I think that's part of the novella's creative genius. The rich people weren't meant to feel attacked by the novella (or he would hardly have gotten the reaction he might have hoped for) - rather, it was written in a way that they might feel as if it were their own idea to feel guilty and start giving lol.
(I'm actually doing the powerpoint's for AN's vTextbook for ACC at the moment and my mind is so jelly) (I want to start a band called "Fezziwig's the Bad Guy" and we would play alternative-pop-rock. Our first song would be "iView your Values")
Dickens intended to draw the attention of the middle-class Victorians to the plight of the poor, and to demonstrate the importance of addressing the state of the poor and destitute. Dickens is able to intertwine this moral message with the Christmas season to reinforce the essence of goodness in humanity.
I love this text! & great idea Brencookie! Haha
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: brenden on February 05, 2014, 01:56:00 am
This is where my procrastiresearch has brought me
Many learnings. Such analytic insight. Very tired Brencookie.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on March 04, 2014, 10:01:48 pm
Hey guys :) Could someone check my plan for this essay question. Thanks :)
Scrooge is initially represented as callous and miserly. How does Dickens show Scrooge's transformation to kind and compassionate?
Because this is a 'how' question, I need to address the ways that Dickens constructs an element of the novella, in order to show Scrooge's transformation from a calloused character, to a kind and compassionate one. The following ideas spring to mind: - The internal structure of the novella reflects Scrooge's vow to "live in the Past, the Present and the Future". The novella begins with Scrooge's past. Scrooge has alienated himself from society, and is too preoccupied with accumulating wealth and trivial possessions, such as "a pencil case" and "two old-fashioned silver teaspoons". The novella then launches into Scrooge's pilgrimage to the Past, the Present and the Future. Finally, the novella's resolution returns to Scrooge's present. However, in this present, Scrooge is rectifying all the faults of his past. So, by utilising this internal structure, Dickens shows Scrooge's gradual transformation to kind and compassionate. From the above, I've gathered these arguments: 1. Dickens juxtaposes Scrooge's "Present" at the novella's exposition, with his "Present" at the novella's resolution, to reinforce his transformed nature from an apathetic miser, to a pleasant, caring individual. 2. Dickens constructs a pilgrimage through which Scrooge is taken to his "Past, Present and Future", in order to revive the innate goodness and prosperity that he has supressed for so long. 3. Dickens characterises various one-dimensional characters as embodying traits that Scrooge endeavours to acquire, to substantiate that his metamorphosis is encouraged by the characters he observes.
Are these good arguments that I will then substantiate, of course, with textual evidence? Thanks
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on March 13, 2014, 10:41:31 pm
Could someone please check if my ideas for this question are good?
‘A Christmas Carol begins with a realistic portrayal of the harsh Victorian world and finishes with an unattainable dream version of that world’. Do you agree?
Plan: -The novella DOES begin with a realistic portrayal of the harsh Victorian world. -The novella DOES NOT end with an unattainable dream version of that world – that is, the novella finishes and proposes the idea that this “dream version of that world” is in fact attainable.
Realistic portrayal of the harsh Victorian world: - It is a realistic portrayal * Even though people are indulging in goods at Christmas time, there are still the poor of the slum who are eating greasy offal and sepulchers of bones. * Even though Tiny Tim and Bob Cratchit are satisfied and happy, the children of men, Ignorance and Want, and the looters, are suffering a lot and are NOT satisfied. - It shows the harsh Victorian world * Scrooge is exploiting his impoverished clerk Bob Cratchit. * Scrooge abides by the Malthusian theories which dominate society. It cannot be doused.
But it is an attainable world – the prospect of this world through individual reform illuminates beacon of hope. - If Scrooge can be redeemed, then those akin to the miser can also change. - If society changes, one Scrooge at a time, then a dream version of that world is attainable. How do we see that this is attainable? - Because Scrooge can change from an avaricious miser to a philanthropist. - Because Scrooge practices spiritual and materialistic generosity (by representing the Victorian elite – Scrooge is actually showing that the Victorian elite can change). - Because society is made up of individuals like Fred, Bob Cratchit, Tiny Tim and the reformed Scrooge, who embody attributes which can lead the Victorian world to this “attainable” dream version of the Victorian world.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Rishi97 on March 29, 2014, 02:20:19 pm
What are some lessons/morals in Stave 2 of The Christmas Carol? Urgent help needed, homework due on monday :-\ Thanks :D
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on March 29, 2014, 05:05:12 pm
What are some lessons/morals in Stave 2 of The Christmas Carol? Urgent help needed, homework due on monday :-\ Thanks :D
Stave 2: Journey with the Ghost of Christmas Past
• Scrooge is shown himself in his youth, reading alone by a feeble fire while the other students celebrate Christmas with their families. Scrooge finds a means of relating the abandonment which he has suffered as a young man, to the neglect he demonstrates towards others. This eventually leads him to pay the turkey boy 'half-a-crown' for bringing the 'prize turkey' in less than five minutes. • The ageless spectre presents Scrooge with the scene of Fan, who informs Scrooge that their 'father is much kinder now', and that he has sent her to bring Scrooge back home. Being reminded of his sister also reminds him of the nephew (Fred) whom he has not shown any care for. After understanding the importance of family values, the 'tight-fisted' Scrooge dines with Fred on Christmas, indulging in festivities to venerate this 'kind, forgiving, charitable, pleasant time'. • The 'hard and sharp as flint' miser is reminded of the prosperity generated by 'affectionate grouping' when he is transported to Old Fezziwig's banquets. Acknowledging the fact that Fezziwig attained the power to render Scrooge 'happy or unhappy', and make his service 'light' and a 'pleasure', enables him to revaluate his exploitation of Bob Cratchit. Accordingly, Scrooge raises his 'meagre salary', which ultimately saves Tiny Tim from premature death. • The confronting revelation that being engrossed by the 'master passion, Gain' has denied Scrooge the love of his life, allows the recluse to recognise the ramifications of his apathetic ways. Belle culminates their relationship upon witnessing Scrooge's 'nobler aspirations' become surpassed by his endeavour to accumulate 'worldy fortunes'. Being reminded of the tender love which he had once experienced with Belle assists the misanthropist in recognising the paramount importance of indulging in festivities with family and friends. • Overall, through the 'bright clear jet of light' protruding from the spectre's head, Scrooge is able to regain contact with the innate goodness he harbours, which he has repressed as a repurcussion of his fear of the 'even-handed dealing of the world'.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Rishi97 on March 29, 2014, 06:04:05 pm
Thank u sooo much for that Yacoubb. That is so helpful. I'd give u more than +1 if I could :)
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on March 29, 2014, 06:50:26 pm
Thank u sooo much for that Yacoubb. That is so helpful. I'd give u more than +1 if I could :)
No worries :) haha thanks for the +1!
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Rishi97 on April 06, 2014, 09:18:27 am
Has anyone started making notes on "A Christmas Carol" ? Could you please give me an idea of how you structured it and what must be included. I just want to write these notes/ analysis so that when it comes to sacs and eventually exams, I won't have to read the whole book again. These notes will also expand my knowledge on the book itself. Thanks :D
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on April 06, 2014, 11:27:29 am
Has anyone started making notes on "A Christmas Carol" ? Could you please give me an idea of how you structured it and what must be included. I just want to write these notes/ analysis so that when it comes to sacs and eventually exams, I won't have to read the whole book again. These notes will also expand my knowledge on the book itself. Thanks :D
I suggest you make note of the following: • How is ACC allegorical? - intended purpose, which characters are archetypes of what traits, how characters play a role in influencing Scrooge to mend his ways. • Scrooge's faults. This is demonstrates throughout staves 1-4. By stave 5, Scrooge has been redeemed and he endeavours to rectify these faults, whether directly or indirectly. For instance, the Ghost of Christmas Past reminds Scrooge of how he mistreats Bob Cratchit, and following his journey with the spirits, Scrooge raises the 'meagre salary' of his impoverished clerk. • Quotes. You don't need to learn long quotes. 3-4 word quotes are really good because you can then incorporate them into your pieces. • Genre of the text. Well, ACC can be categorised as a morality tale, a Gothic fiction or a story about Christmas. For each of those categories, find textual evidence that demonstrates how the novella cam be regarded as that genre. (Eg. the presence of 'unearthly visitors' to guide Scrooge to redemption demonstrates the Gothic, supernatural qualities of the narrative).
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: mikehepro on April 06, 2014, 10:01:59 pm
I already done the SAC for it :P Also, while reading the text,try to look closely to the narrative. I had a prompt which is "How does Dicken's narrative shifts between humor, realism and horror, Discuss." That was a killer.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on April 07, 2014, 07:51:04 am
I already done the SAC for it :P Also, while reading the text,try to look closely to the narrative. I had a prompt which is "How does Dicken's narrative shifts between humor, realism and horror, Discuss." That was a killer.
Very true! That question almost looks at how Dickens stealthily combines horror, humour and realism to deliver his message to the reader. So it is very important to take note of these various instances in the text.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Rishi97 on April 07, 2014, 08:38:05 am
What was your sac prompt Yacoubb?
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on April 07, 2014, 09:14:50 am
'A Christmas Carol begins with a realistic portrayal of the harsh Victorian world and finishes with an unattainable dream version of that world. Discuss.'
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Rishi97 on April 07, 2014, 10:56:16 am
What is everybody's views on the following question : - Does Scrooge change because he genuinely wants to be a better person, or for selfish reasons?
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on April 07, 2014, 12:50:50 pm
What is everybody's views on the following question : - Does Scrooge change because he genuinely wants to be a better person, or for selfish reasons?
Scrooge's redemption is based on both self-preservation and generosity of spirit. But, through the rectification of his faults, and the kindness and compassion he demonstrates towards others, it is fair to conclude that his reclamation is based mostly upon genuine intentions of becoming a reformed man with a newfound awareness for others.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Blondie21 on April 07, 2014, 04:34:44 pm
For the quote "but that the hand WAS open, generous, and true; the heart brave, warm and tender" (page 102 .. of my copy), is this about Scrooge?
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on April 07, 2014, 06:11:14 pm
What's the context of that paragraph?? Which stave is it in?
This occurs in Stave 4, where Scrooge is presented with a dead boy (his own dead body.. but we don't know that yet.. ;)). The paragraph begins with "oh cold, cold, rigid dreadful Death"
Does this help?
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on April 07, 2014, 07:31:53 pm
This occurs in Stave 4, where Scrooge is presented with a dead boy (his own dead body.. but we don't know that yet.. ;)). The paragraph begins with "oh cold, cold, rigid dreadful Death"
Does this help?
Yeah I got it. This quote demonstrates that the 'hard and sharp as flint' Scrooge harbours goodness which he has repressed for his miserable pursuit of wealth. Here, Dickens reveals that Scrooge, a man of such undesirable nature, is capable of change.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Blondie21 on April 07, 2014, 07:53:18 pm
Yeah I got it. This quote demonstrates that the 'hard and sharp as flint' Scrooge harbours goodness which he has repressed for his miserable pursuit of wealth. Here, Dickens reveals that Scrooge, a man of such undesirable nature, is capable of change.
Thanks! This will fit nicely into my essay :D
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Rishi97 on April 07, 2014, 08:15:49 pm
The one about society's inertia.. With that quote, I'm going to explore how Dickens believed that every individual had the capability to be good. Did you receive this prompt??
Is this topic just from the powerpoints for each stave?
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Blondie21 on April 08, 2014, 06:59:03 am
Has anyone focused of the distortion of time throughout the novella?
Other than revealing the supernatural elements of the spirits, what is the reason for it?
... Could it be that Dickens was alluding to the audience that every individual is capable of a second chance.. (?)
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Rishi97 on April 08, 2014, 07:11:07 pm
I have to write a TEEL paragraph for the following topic but I am soo stuck. I have no idea what to do. Could someone please give me some ideas for good arguments?
'Christmas is presented as a type of antidote to the chilling winter weather for people from all social classes. Discuss.'
Thanks :)
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on April 08, 2014, 10:53:44 pm
Has anyone focused of the distortion of time throughout the novella?
Other than revealing the supernatural elements of the spirits, what is the reason for it?
... Could it be that Dickens was alluding to the audience that every individual is capable of a second chance.. (?)
It is ultimately to reinforce the influential power of the spirits. If they are capable of creating temporal inconsistensies, then they are capable of guiding the 'hard and sharp as flint' Scrooge to redemption.
I have to write a TEEL paragraph for the following topic but I am soo stuck. I have no idea what to do. Could someone please give me some ideas for good arguments?
'Christmas is presented as a type of antidote to the chilling winter weather for people from all social classes. Discuss.'
Thanks :)
I'll start you off: • On the streets, people are 'jovial and full of glee' as the Christmas spirit possesses and allows them to 'open their shut up hearts freely'. During Christmas, the Cratchits rejoice in the yuletide season despite their meagre state. Another instant is the 'air of cheerfulness' that permeates through the street - people crash their wicker baskets and throw facetious snowballs at each other in the best humour possible.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Rishi97 on April 09, 2014, 09:03:07 am
Thank you so much Yacoubb :) You are such a life saver Like I said, 99.95 definetly ;D Thanks again :D :D :D
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on April 09, 2014, 09:52:29 am
Thank you so much Yacoubb :) You are such a life saver Like I said, 99.95 definetly ;D Thanks again :D :D :D
No worries :) I'm so flattered! LOOL thanks!
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Blondie21 on April 09, 2014, 10:24:04 am
'Christmas is presented as a type of antidote to the chilling winter weather for people from all social classes. Discuss.'
EVIDENCE:
1. In Stave One, you can talk about how WITHOUT the Christmas spirit, the weather was "cold, bleak, biting'... 'the city clocks had only just gone three, but it was quite dark already'.. 'the fog came pouring in every chink and keyhole'.... 'dingy cloud came drooping down'...
2. The first change in the weather. In Stave 2, The Ghost of Christmas Past brings him to his old boarding school, where the weather has changed! 'The darkness and the mist [of the city] had vanished with it, for it was a clear, cold, winder day, with snow upon the ground.' In this scene, the 'jocund travellers' were greeting one another with a 'Merry Christmas.' (I would also explore how the boys are from the lower class and I would support this with evidence that the 'large house' was 'one of broken fortunes' and the rooms were 'poorly furnished, cold, and vast' because the prompt highlights that you need to also mention the different classes)
3. In Stave 3 (The Ghost of Christmas Present shows Scrooge a plethora of people who are merry and jovial .. and then weather changes because of this!). The first scene is a Christmas morning where although 'the weather was severe', there was 'an air of cheerfulness abroad that the clearest summer air and brightest summer sun might have endeavoured to diffuse the pain'. The citizens were 'jovial and full of glee' (This is the brilliant point that Yacoubb made!)
4. Stave 4!! The Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come.. the stave is written in a somber tone to highlight that this is the inevitable future if Scrooge (or the audience ;)) do not demonstrate the goodness of Christmas. ... I couldn't find much! I guess you could mention the 'darkness' (?)
5. Scrooge has learnt the importance of Christmas and the ignorance of his previous mindset towards the holiday. This new founded realisation caused a transformation in the weather. Once he opened the window, the weather had 'No fog, no mist' and was 'clearr, bright [and] jovial" (Again, I would mention something about the classes.. Scrooge's wealth = High class? Idk)
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Rishi97 on April 09, 2014, 10:30:18 am
OMG Thanks sooo much Blondie... Defs worth more than +1. I owe you one ;)
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on April 09, 2014, 10:45:54 am
4. Stave 4!! The Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come.. the stave is written in a somber tone to highlight that this is the inevitable future if Scrooge (or the audience ;)) do not demonstrate the goodness of Christmas. ... I couldn't find much! I guess you could mention the 'darkness' (?)
I wouldn't mention this in that essay. In Stave 4, the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come transports Scrooge to the 'den of infamous resort', where he witnesses the dire circumstances of the 'half-naked, slipshod' poor. In this instant, Dickens is revealing the harshness of his Victorian England; he is demonstrating how irrespective of the fact that many people are immersed in Christmas celebrations, the 'drunked' poor are suffering greatly in the slums, feeding on 'greasy offal' in order to assuage their gnawing hunger. So it wouldn't really fit into an essay (like this one) where we're arguing that Christmas is ALWAYS going to generate prosperity regardless of social class - it isn't suitable textual evidence to discuss to substantiate the contention.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Blondie21 on April 09, 2014, 12:26:26 pm
I wouldn't mention this in that essay. In Stave 4, the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come transports Scrooge to the 'den of infamous resort', where he witnesses the dire circumstances of the 'half-naked, slipshod' poor. In this instant, Dickens is revealing the harshness of his Victorian England; he is demonstrating how irrespective of the fact that many people are immersed in Christmas celebrations, the 'drunked' poor are suffering greatly in the slums, feeding on 'greasy offal' in order to assuage their gnawing hunger. So it wouldn't really fit into an essay (like this one) where we're arguing that Christmas is ALWAYS going to generate prosperity regardless of social class - it isn't suitable textual evidence to discuss to substantiate the contention.
Hehhe I don't entirely agree with this, so we can have a discussion about it. I love it! :-)
Dickens never mentions that anyone is immersed with Christmas celebrations in this Stave. In class, we discussed how Dickens was portraying the future if Want and Ignorance became prevalent within society. He was demonstrating (yes, the poverty of Victorian England but also) the disastorous ramifications if society were to forget about the benefits of Christmas. Within this Stave 3, Dickens describes the 'fruiterers' [as] radiant in their glory' and that the citiznes are in 'the best humour possible.' This is contrasted with the scene in Stave 4, where (as you said) the people were 'drunken, slipshod, ugly' and the shops were 'wretched.' With this, Dickens is highlighting the importance of Christmas spirit and the need for the audience to also share these beliefs.
I know that this idea doesn't fit into the prompt exactly and I was iffy about it from the beginning.
Last year, I would normally always have a disagreeing paragraph in order to add more depth into my analysis. However, I haven't shown (or completed.. whoops!) an essay so I am yet to find out what my teacher thinks about this.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on April 09, 2014, 12:42:14 pm
Hehhe I don't entirely agree with this, so we can have a discussion about it. I love it! :-)
Dickens never mentions that anyone is immersed with Christmas celebrations in this Stave. In class, we discussed how Dickens was portraying the future if Want and Ignorance became prevalent within society. He was demonstrating (yes, the poverty of Victorian England but also) the disastorous ramifications if society were to forget about the benefits of Christmas. Within this Stave 3, Dickens describes the 'fruiterers' [as] radiant in their glory' and that the citiznes are in 'the best humour possible.' This is contrasted with the scene in Stave 4, where (as you said) the people were 'drunken, slipshod, ugly' and the shops were 'wretched.' With this, Dickens is highlighting the importance of Christmas spirit and the need for the audience to also share these beliefs.
I know that this idea doesn't fit into the prompt exactly and I was iffy about it from the beginning.
Last year, I would normally always have a disagreeing paragraph in order to add more depth into my analysis. However, I haven't shown (or completed.. whoops!) an essay so I am yet to find out what my teacher thinks about this.
Yay! A discussion, haha I love it too!
This is my perspective. The question is saying that Christmas is an antidote ultimately to the suffering. It would be remiss to overlook the fact that even while the people on the streets of contemporary England are 'jovial and full of glee', that there are poor people who are suffering. Ignorance and Want already exist. The narrator actually mentions that Scrooge had been aware of this area of 'bad repute', but that he has never penetrated it before. The slums have and will always exist. By embracing the Christmas spirit, which is ultimately what Scrooge is taught during his journey with the spirits, he is able to revive his generosity, financially and otherwise, in order to build a world for the poor to become educated, sheltered and nurtured.
You could use this but in a different way in your rebuttal paragraph. You could say that, no, Christmas isn't the antidote. There is still suffering while the people are jovial and full of glee on the streets (referring to the poor of the slums). While the poor indulge in 'long wreaths of sausages' and 'seething bowls of punch' while celebrating Christmas, the 'half-naked' poor are feeding on 'greasy offal' and 'sepulchres of bones' in order to assuage their gnawing hunger. While people are immersed in their Christmas celebrations, looters are stealing objects as trivial as a 'pencil case' and a 'brooch of no great value'. So the contention of this paragraph is that Christmas is not necessarily the antidote.
I love English because its subject to different interpretations! :)
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Blondie21 on April 09, 2014, 03:51:19 pm
This is my perspective. The question is saying that Christmas is an antidote ultimately to the suffering. It would be remiss to overlook the fact that even while the people on the streets of contemporary England are 'jovial and full of glee', that there are poor people who are suffering. Ignorance and Want already exist. The narrator actually mentions that Scrooge had been aware of this area of 'bad repute', but that he has never penetrated it before. The slums have and will always exist. By embracing the Christmas spirit, which is ultimately what Scrooge is taught during his journey with the spirits, he is able to revive his generosity, financially and otherwise, in order to build a world for the poor to become educated, sheltered and nurtured.
You could use this but in a different way in your rebuttal paragraph. You could say that, no, Christmas isn' the antidote. There is still suffering while the people are jovial and full of glee on the streets (referring to the poor of the slums). While the poor indulge in 'long wreaths of sausages' and 'seething bowls of punch' while celebrating Christmas, the 'half-naked' poor are feeding on 'greasy offal' and 'sepulchres of bones' in order to assuage their gnawing hunger. While people are immersed in their Christmas celebrations, looters are stealing objects as trivial as a 'pencil case' and a 'brooch of no great value'. So the contention of this paragraph is that Christmas is not necessarily the antidote.
I love English because its subject to different interpretations! :)
Mmm I understand where you're coming from.
I still believe that Dickens was attempting to highlight that those who were suffering with poverty were still able to appreciate Christmas (compared to Scrooge and the middle/high class society who were wealthy yet greedy). This is seen with the Cratchits, who were evidently suffering with poverty as they wore “twice turned,” “thread-bare” and “cheap” clothing though showed their respect towards the holiday as they attempted to appear “brushed” and “seasonable.” In addition, Scrooge is presented with miners who were singing a “Christmas song” to further reiterate that the poor were able to show their appreciation towards the importance of Christmas, regardless of their socioeconomic status. Dickens outlines what will happen to this society, hence the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come, showing Scrooge the future of London if society forgets the importance of the holiday. That this will result in an inevitable 'doom'. Dickens uses the community in Stave 4 to describe the modern Victorian England and persuades the audeince to recognise that their inertia (e.g. like you said – Scrooge being aware of the area of ‘bad repute’ yet failing to do anything about it) impoverished the lower class and therefore would alter their mindset, in order for their own society to be as jovial and merry as the one described in Stave 3.
I feel as though your points contradict one another. Are you alluding to the fact that there are different levels of poverty? Personally, I wouldn’t link these two descriptions of the poor together as I believe Dickens was portraying poverty in a different light, rather than creating a disparity between the poor.
What about if we just say that although the poor did appreciate the Christmas spirit, this is not enough unless the wealthy do also. That without the wealthy, the poor are unable to stop the suffering (the 'chilling winter'). E.g. Scrooge's meagre pay for Bob Cratchit. ... What do you think? does it fit within the prompt?
Eh. I feel restricted in English.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: bennick18 on April 11, 2014, 02:06:41 pm
I'm having trouble finding arguments and quotes to support them for the following topic, particularly on the Christmas festivity:
" In the preface, Dickens foreshadows both the message of Christmas festivity and contrasting moral lesson of A Christmas Carol. Discuss "
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Blondie21 on April 11, 2014, 08:57:19 pm
What are some synonyms for "the middle and high class"?
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on April 11, 2014, 09:06:37 pm
Ah. The definition of 'Bourgeoisie' was/ is never listed under the upper-classes, especially when it comes to the history lessons. Bourgeoisies normally presented the higher strata of the middle classes, and it is often their advancement into society that they were often looked down upon from the higher-classes, as well as a form of alienation from the destitute. They were disliked by the higher classes because of their rapidly influential political and economical powers; and the lower classes detested the bourgeoisie because of their business-centred ideology (hence apathy to the plight of the poor). This is mostly running from textbook definition, but the bourgeoisie is definitely not listed under the upper-class. Instead they should be under the 'middle-class' instead.
However, some synonyms of higher class can include: the nobility/nobles (although by this time, their power and wealth faded and gave way to the industrious types), gentry, higher classes, and higher/upper strata.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on April 12, 2014, 12:37:05 am
Ah. The definition of 'Bourgeoisie' was/ is never listed under the upper-classes, especially when it comes to the history lessons. Bourgeoisies normally presented the higher strata of the middle classes, and it is often their advancement into society that they were often looked down upon from the higher-classes, as well as a form of alienation from the destitute. They were disliked by the higher classes because of their rapidly influential political and economical powers; and the lower classes detested the bourgeoisie because of their business-centred ideology (hence apathy to the plight of the poor). This is mostly running from textbook definition, but the bourgeoisie is definitely not listed under the upper-class. Instead they should be under the 'middle-class' instead.
However, some synonyms of higher class can include: the nobility/nobles (although by this time, their power and wealth faded and gave way to the industrious types), gentry, higher classes, and higher/upper strata.
Hmm...you could be right, but my English teacher (a VCAA assessor) has actually seen this and not mentioned anything. But thanks for that.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Blondie21 on April 12, 2014, 09:13:18 am
Thanks guys :)
What about for "lower class"? Can I use "hoi polloi" in the same context?
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on April 12, 2014, 11:00:47 am
What about for "lower class"? Can I use "hoi polloi" in the same context?
Financially struggling/disadvantaged/disabled, poor, impoverished (These can be used for instance when talking about the Cratchits) ^^ That should work!
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Cort on April 12, 2014, 11:12:19 am
The penury, impoverished, destitute, lower strata, or if you want some fancy french language, 'cul de sac'.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Blondie21 on April 22, 2014, 04:46:09 pm
For the prompt "Scrooge’s change of heart owes more to guilt than compassion. Discuss", what are some arguments which would agree that Scrooge was motivated by compassion, rather than greed?
I have so many arguments for greed and would love to hear your suggestions :-)
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Rishi97 on April 22, 2014, 04:53:41 pm
For the prompt "Scrooge’s change of heart owes more to guilt than compassion. Discuss", what are some arguments which would agree that Scrooge was motivated by compassion, rather than greed?
I have so many arguments for greed and would love to hear your suggestions :-)
Here's what I think: Scrooge decided to become a father figure for "Tiny Tim" after his change. He could've easily just given the Crachit family some money and walked away
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Blondie21 on April 22, 2014, 05:03:44 pm
Here's what I think: Scrooge decided to become a father figure for "Tiny Tim" after his change. He could've easily just given the Crachit family some money and walked away
Haha i've already planned on writing that he only did this becaues of his GUILT. If Scrooge had remained his previous, greedy self, Tiny Tim would have died.
.. Can you think of anything else? If not I will just change my plan :P
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Rishi97 on April 22, 2014, 05:15:58 pm
Haha i've already planned on writing that he only did this becaues of his GUILT. If Scrooge had remained his previous, greedy self, Tiny Tim would have died.
.. Can you think of anything else? If not I will just change my plan :P
Would you say it was for guilt? I believe that before Scrooge transformed, he was just a greedy, selfish old man who didn't care for others. So even if tiny tim died, would it have made a difference to him if he hadn't undergone that change? From the first place, Scrooge wasn't upholding that social responsibility was he?
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Blondie21 on April 22, 2014, 05:46:06 pm
Would you say it was for guilt? I believe that before Scrooge transformed, he was just a greedy, selfish old man who didn't care for others. So even if tiny tim died, would it have made a difference to him if he hadn't undergone that change? From the first place, Scrooge wasn't upholding that social responsibility was he?
Mmm I was going to argue that once Scrooge was aware that his greedy mindset was going to inevitably cause the young death of Tiny Tim, he felt guilty and therefore changed. Because of his inability to provide Bob Cratchit with a decent salary, the Cratchit family were unable to provide the proper care for Tiny Tim.. causing his decease...
Buttttttttttt I've decided to change it and use this evidence for compassion :P
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: mikehepro on April 22, 2014, 06:28:35 pm
Well rather than focusing on Tiny Tim, personally i felt that he felt guilt while the ghosts bought him to various scenes. Remember the parts where he feel guilt for his attitude towards the caroling boy, his guilt of his horrible treatment of Bob, his guilt for letting greed consume him and lose the chance to live a happy, fulfilled life. Oh and also the part where he felt guilt for being such a "merciless" money lender since the couple were happy that he died. ( i don't know if i'm over thinking it but i'm pretty sure that was implied) The more i write, the close it's merging to regret. I found that these two are very similar in a sense but are also different things.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Blondie21 on April 22, 2014, 06:43:09 pm
Well rather than focusing on Tiny Tim, personally i felt that he felt guilt while the ghosts bought him to various scenes. Remember the parts where he feel guilt for his attitude towards the caroling boy, his guilt of his horrible treatment of Bob, his guilt for letting greed consume him and lose the chance to live a happy, fulfilled life. Oh and also the part where he felt guilt for being such a "merciless" money lender since the couple were happy that he died. ( i don't know if i'm over thinking it but i'm pretty sure that was implied) The more i write, the close it's merging to regret. I found that these two are very similar in a sense but are also different things.
Yeah defs!! I really like those points :))
What would you write to disagree with this prompt? What do you think about the argument that Scrooge truly felt empathy for society due to the hardships that they were condemned to face (e.g. Tiny Tim, poverty of many, the streets of Stave 4)?
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Blondie21 on April 22, 2014, 07:09:18 pm
Can someone please read over my intro? :))
The bleak hardships of the lower class during Industrial England prompted the upper class to either alter themselves due to their empathy or due to their individual regret. Within A Christmas Carol, Dickens explores the catalyst for change and what an individual’s transformation is dependent on. Once Scrooge is exposed to the harsh living standards of the lower class, he develops sincere empathy for their suffering and alters his mindset. In addition, the kind nature of the community persuades Scrooge to also become compassionate, as this behaviour is praised within society. However, Scrooge also recognises the mistakes he has made in the past and thus attempts to aid those he feels guilty for. Hence, an individual’s metamorphosis can be the result of either true care or due to the regret of one’s own wrongdoing.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: mikehepro on April 22, 2014, 07:10:31 pm
What would you write to disagree with this prompt? What do you think about the argument that Scrooge truly felt empathy for society due to the hardships that they were condemned to face (e.g. Tiny Tim, poverty of many, the streets of Stave 4)?
Yah i think that's fine. Is there a lot of evidence that explicitly states that he felt empathy for the society in general???? Also think about it in another angle, people felt pity and empathy toward him in the first place, for example his nephew Fred, felt pity towards Uncle Scrooge, there should be a quote " i pity him" or something. Maybe you could say that he saw that his own behavior resulted into his nephew's sympathy. (might be a weak point tho, just an epiphany that i came up with just then)
Personally how i would of wrote/planned it as : yes, guilt is definitely a major factor towards his change, then we talk about compassion;However, is there something more to it? Is it just guilt and compassion alone that changed him??? What about fear? The fear of death, the fear of loneliness, the fear of the future of the society???? I don't know if this might be a bit off track or not but personally that's how i approach it. I'm not that good at English anyway, (doing ESL), so ask your teacher to double check :D
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: mikehepro on April 22, 2014, 07:14:12 pm
The bleak hardships of the lower class during Industrial England prompted the upper class to either alter themselves due to their empathy or due to their individual regret. Within A Christmas Carol, Dickens explores the catalyst for change and what an individual’s transformation is dependent on. Once Scrooge is exposed to the harsh living standards of the lower class, he develops sincere empathy for their suffering and alters his mindset. In addition, the kind nature of the community persuades Scrooge to also become compassionate, as this behaviour is praised within society. However, Scrooge also recognises the mistakes he has made in the past and thus attempts to aid those he feels guilty for. Hence, an individual’s metamorphosis can be the result of either true care or due to the regret of one’s own wrongdoing.
I can't help you with this ahhaha sorry,i have ideas but honestly i can not tell the difference between a 5/10 and a 8/10 essay. Maybe post in the English work and submission board might yield greater success.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Blondie21 on April 22, 2014, 07:14:59 pm
Yah i think that's fine. Is there a lot of evidence that explicitly states that he felt empathy for the society in general???? Also think about it in another angle, people felt pity and empathy toward him in the first place, for example his nephew Fred, felt pity towards Uncle Scrooge, there should be a quote " i pity him" or something. Maybe you could say that he saw that his own behavior resulted into his nephew's sympathy. (might be a weak point tho, just an epiphany that i came up with just then)
Personally how i would of wrote/planned it as : yes, guilt is definitely a major factor towards his change, then we talk about compassion;However, is there something more to it? Is it just guilt and compassion alone that changed him??? What about fear? The fear of death, the fear of loneliness, the fear of the future of the society???? I don't know if this might be a bit off track or not but personally that's how i approach it. I'm not that good at English anyway, (doing ESL), so ask your teacher to double check :D
Haha seems like you are going to smash ESL ;) I really like the idea of exploring fear.. however, the prompt is 'compassion' or 'guilt' and I'm pretty sure my teacher would freak out if I discussed something different :P Nevertheless, they are great ideas!!
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Rishi97 on October 03, 2014, 10:37:28 am
What does the Crachit family represent? Deatailed and in-depth responses appreciated :)
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Edward Elric on October 03, 2014, 12:20:00 pm
What does the Crachit family represent? Deatailed and in-depth responses appreciated :)
The Cratchit family represents the virtuous, deserving lower class at the time. They work hard, and are contented with what they have, despite living in their extreme state of poverty. Bob Cratchit is loyal to Scrooge, a kind husband and father uninterested in worldly possessions and embodies the perfect victorian worker. They reinforce the values of togetherness and family in contrast to Scrooge's abandonment and loneliness that Dickens wanted for his readership to adopt They demonstrate how money and material gooda are not necessarily towards true happiness, as they themselvea are 'happy, grateful, pleased with one another and contented with the time'.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: [email protected] on October 03, 2014, 09:09:55 pm
If anything, I HIGHLY recommend that everyone looks about ACC book critiques. I've talked to past students and that is key to knowledge of the text. Just throwing that out there.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on October 03, 2014, 10:53:55 pm
If anything, I HIGHLY recommend that everyone looks about ACC book critiques. I've talked to past students and that is key to knowledge of the text. Just throwing that out there.
The best form of analysis. I think Dickens thoroughly appreciates literature and the delivery of message through rich adjectives, and vivid illustrations!! Thoughts?
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: katiesaliba on October 04, 2014, 12:04:10 am
What does the Crachit family represent? Deatailed and in-depth responses appreciated :)
They starkly contrast Scrooge's demeanour and worldly ignorance. The Cratchit's truly epitomise "joy, and gratitude, and ecstasy"-the very qualities that Scrooge missed out on acquiring due to his greed. Thus, the family serve as a reminder of what comes as a result of kindness. They also personify poverty so that Scrooge can actually visualise the casualties that will "decrease the surplus population" due to his miserliness. Guilt and remorse-things that Scrooge had previously suppressed- will consequently surface. Of course, as the juxtaposition between the family and Scrooge is so very obvious, it's all rather sentimentalised (to enthral readers with the poignancy...*ahem*, I sense a rhetoric device here!) :P
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Rishi97 on October 10, 2014, 03:38:48 pm
Hey everyone
Could someone please help me re-word this sentence so it sounds more sophisticated and "yr 12" standard? :P I'm talking about what role the ghost of Christmas past has in changing scrooge
The ghost of Christmas Past enables Scrooge to re-experience his “solitary” past and allow him to realise how he was treated which hopefully allows him to change his ways towards others.
Thanks
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on October 10, 2014, 09:49:13 pm
Could someone please help me re-word this sentence so it sounds more sophisticated and "yr 12" standard? :P I'm talking about what role the ghost of Christmas past has in changing scrooge
The ghost of Christmas Past enables Scrooge to re-experience his “solitary” past and allow him to realise how he was treated which hopefully allows him to change his ways towards others.
Thanks
The Spirit of Christmas Past presents Scrooge with the shadows of his 'solitary' life, in the hope of the 'scraping' Scrooge rekindling the memories he shares with others. In doing so, the spectral being enables Scrooge to recognise the importance of mending his apathetic ways.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Rishi97 on October 11, 2014, 09:47:44 am
The Spirit of Christmas Past presents Scrooge with the shadows of his 'solitary' life, in the hope of the 'scraping' Scrooge rekindling the memories he shares with others. In doing so, the spectral being enables Scrooge to recognise the importance of mending his apathetic ways.
Thanks Yacoubb!!! Sounds much better now :) just out of interest, roughly how many words are your introductions?
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on October 11, 2014, 01:48:14 pm
Thanks Yacoubb!!! Sounds much better now :) just out of interest, roughly how many words are your introductions?
My pleasure :) No more than 150 words, generally speaking.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Rishi97 on October 12, 2014, 08:56:51 am
I'm finding this topic pretty difficult: ‘A Christmas Carol is as much a story about the human cost of social inequality as it is about the capacity of people to do good.’
Anyone have any ideas of what I could include in the body paragraphs?
Much appreciated :)
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: [email protected] on October 12, 2014, 02:19:44 pm
I'm finding this topic pretty difficult: ‘A Christmas Carol is as much a story about the human cost of social inequality as it is about the capacity of people to do good.’
Anyone have any ideas of what I could include in the body paragraphs?
Well basically the overarching contention from Dickens with the novella is the first concept, being a political pamphlet, and the later is the general story. However looking at the prompt, I believe you have to use the two sentiments concurrently.
The big idea from this is Want and Ignorance. This scene concluding the third stave is pivotal to answer this prompt. You can juxtapose this with the scene of the forth stave when the ghost shows Scrooge the "cesspools" of the lower class area. Hence you must relate this to the final stave for Scrooge going about the streets being merry and giving money.
A pertinent example is Bob Cratchit. There is a plethora of examples to his low social inequality, however being the ideal citizen, yet still living in the lower class area. Thus again juxtaposing to the final stave for Scrooge to help him out and such.
Now thinking about it. You can also flip the prompt on it's head and go against it by saying either of the sentiments precedes the other. In a way I personally believe the first precedes it as well, again, the intention of the novella is the message of redemption for the Victorian society. So you can point to how Dickens does this subtly by instead of making it obvious by bluntly stating "oh yeah redemption or children will and blah blah", which would be awkward, he does this in a 'smarter' way. He rebukes Scrooge's comments.
I can go on for a while but if that doesn't help to get ideas running then get back to me.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on October 22, 2014, 08:10:42 am
Hi guys :) so another potential question I believe they may ask, which they haven't in VCAA exams, is:
How plausible/believable is Scrooge's transformation?
Now I'd argue that to a certain extent, Scrooge's redemption is plausible. * The dramatic transformation from a 'covetous, old sinner' to a giving philanthropist in a single night may undermine the plausibility of Scrooge's transformation. However, the redeemed man he becomes embodies the same character that he once lived through, that he has repressed due to becoming engrossed by the 'master passion, Gain'. This indicates that his true generosity of spirit is not foreign, and thus the practice of this generosity is plausible/believable. * Mediating Scrooge's journey to redemption are supernatural figures capable of creating temporal inconsistencies. Such a medium to employ for the recluse's transformation can diminish the credibility of his transformation. Notwithstanding, the spirits help Scrooge through the tri-temporal process of healing that involves a pilgrimage into 'the Past, the Present and the Future'. In this way, Scrooge is able to articulate his own, acknowledged failings, and mend his avaricious ways accordingly, exemplifying his desire to change as opposed to it being forced.
Does anyone have any other arguments to add to what I've got above? ^ I mean I could perhaps break them up into four paragraphs, but I think I'd like one more argument for a sense of fulfilment, haha! :) happy studying everybody!
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: nhmn0301 on October 22, 2014, 08:21:39 am
Hi guys :) so another potential question I believe they may ask, which they haven't in VCAA exams, is:
How plausible/believable is Scrooge's transformation?
Now I'd argue that to a certain extent, Scrooge's redemption is plausible. * The dramatic transformation from a 'covetous, old sinner' to a giving philanthropist in a single night may undermine the plausibility of Scrooge's transformation. However, the redeemed man he becomes embodies the same character that he once lived through, that he has repressed due to becoming engrossed by the 'master passion, Gain'. This indicates that his true generosity of spirit is not foreign, and thus the practice of this generosity is plausible/believable. * Mediating Scrooge's journey to redemption are supernatural figures capable of creating temporal inconsistencies. Such a medium to employ for the recluse's transformation can diminish the credibility of his transformation. Notwithstanding, the spirits help Scrooge through the tri-temporal process of healing that involves a pilgrimage into 'the Past, the Present and the Future'. In this way, Scrooge is able to articulate his own, acknowledged failings, and mend his avaricious ways accordingly, exemplifying his desire to change as opposed to it being forced.
Does anyone have any other arguments to add to what I've got above? ^ I mean I could perhaps break them up into four paragraphs, but I think I'd like one more argument for a sense of fulfilment, haha! :) happy studying everybody!
I think the above arguments sound pretty good :). I think I would make 1 more base on the connection between imaginative landscape and Scrooge's real emotions towards it. *Throughout the novella, the places Scrooge visits play a significant role in shaping the miser emotions and compassion towards the sufferings of others. Though the enlightening trip through time can be purely imaginative and unconceivable, it is the miser's sincere emotion towards the familiar scenes and love warmth that resonates in readers mind and reinforce their certainty of Scrooge's transformation. My phrasing might not be very good but hope that helps :D!
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on October 22, 2014, 08:32:18 am
I think the above arguments sound pretty good :). I think I would make 1 more base on the connection between imaginative landscape and Scrooge's real emotions towards it. *Throughout the novella, the places Scrooge visits play a significant role in shaping the miser emotions and compassion towards the sufferings of others. Though the enlightening trip through time can be purely imaginative and unconceivable, it is the miser's sincere emotion towards the familiar scenes and love warmth that resonates in readers mind and reinforce their certainty of Scrooge's transformation. My phrasing might not be very good but hope that helps :D!
Excellent point! I think that the sincere emotion he displays when he visits various locations, and observes the true characters of individuals, reinstates that he is genuine in the acknowledgment of his failings. Thus, his redemption is plausible as it demonstrates that his transformation is not based entirely on self-preservation.
I think my body paragraph order: *The dramatic transformation from a 'covetous, old sinner' to a giving philanthropist in a single night may undermine the plausibility of Scrooge's transformation. However, the redeemed man he becomes embodies the same character that he once lived through, that he has repressed due to becoming engrossed by the 'master passion, Gain'. This indicates that his true generosity of spirit is not foreign, and thus the practice of this generosity is plausible/believable. *Mediating Scrooge's journey to redemption are supernatural figures capable of creating temporal inconsistencies. Such a medium to employ for the recluse's transformation can diminish the credibility of his transformation. Notwithstanding, the spirits help Scrooge through the tri-temporal process of healing that involves a pilgrimage into 'the Past, the Present and the Future'. In this way, Scrooge is able to articulate his own, acknowledged failings, and mend his avaricious ways accordingly, exemplifying his desire to change as opposed to it being forced. *The sincere emotion he displays when he visits various locations, and observes the true characters of individuals, reinstates that he is genuine in the acknowledgment of his failings. Thus, his redemption is plausible as it demonstrates that his transformation is not based entirely on self-preservation.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on October 22, 2014, 09:23:12 am
Something I thought of is coming up with the social norms of Victorian England during Dickens' time. This is because I found the following question for 'A Christmas Carol':
‘Dickens challenges social norms through his portrayal of the attitudes of the wealthy and behaviour of the impoverished’. Discuss.
So Dickens challenges social norms: * Was a social norm that the wealthy, who rigidly adhered to their Malthusian theories of economics and social-utilitarianism, were not disposed towards the neediest in their midst. * Was a social norm that employers were exploited by their employees during the time of social injustice and rampant industrialism? * Was a social norm that generosity was practised exclusively during the Yuletide season? Does Dickens challenge this by explaining how the 'even-handed dealings of the world exist' irrespective of the season throughout the 'long calendar of the year'? Does he not say that we must maintain the Christmas spirit, by depicting the state of the poor and indicating that the generosity espoused by Christmas should be maintained throughout the year to soothe the conditions of the poor?
Could someone perhaps validate my arguments, and please feel free to add anything you wish. :)
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on October 22, 2014, 09:33:27 am
I'm finding this topic pretty difficult: ‘A Christmas Carol is as much a story about the human cost of social inequality as it is about the capacity of people to do good.’
Anyone have any ideas of what I could include in the body paragraphs?
Much appreciated :)
I know this is an ancient post, but thought I'd tackle the question in case others want to discuss it or have queries about it. I would approach this essay by having each paragraph how Dickens describes the cost of social inequality, and through that, how he discusses the capacity to do good.
E.g. Tiny Tim is marginalised socio-economically and as a result of his physical disability. Belonging to the under-class dichotomy, which in the Victorian era are in dire circumstances, Tiny Tim has very little hope of surviving with limited healthcare. By portraying the redoubtable protagonist, Ebenezer Scrooge, as becoming a second father to Tiny Tim following his reclamation, Dickens reinstates the notion that the wealthy must become disposed towards the neediest in their midst, particularly those suffering at the hands of their social-utilitarian society.
E.g. During the pilgrimage to 'the Future' with the ominous and anonymous Spirit of Christmas Yet to Come, Scrooge witnesses the appalling living conditions of the 'obcure part of town' of 'bad repute'. It is within this microcosm of the slums that Dickens exemplifies the dire circumstances of the poor and destitute, who are depicted as being 'slipshod, ugly'. Moreover, the revelation that institutions such as the Poor Laws and the Treadmill 'scarcely furnish Christian cheer of mind' epitomises the suffering the poor and destitute, who are undermined by their position in society. Notwithstanding, it is through this depiction and Scrooge's subsequent transformaion that Dickens reiterates the essence of making a 'many-back payments' to soothe the suffering of the less fortunate, and attain a world where the needs of the less fortunate are catered to.
That's a start so perhaps we can have a discussion about this. :) so glad I chose A Christmas Carol over Twelve Angry Men. I'm thoroughly enjoying preparing for the exam knowing that I enjoy the texts that I'm studying!
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: faredcarsking123 on October 22, 2014, 11:08:12 pm
Hi guys,
‘It is the gothic elements of ghosts and time-shifts that give suspense to what is otherwise only a simple tale.’ Do you agree?
For the above question, I'm having difficulty in writing a paragraph concerning the ghosts and the gothic elements of the tale, can anyone give me a hand?
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on October 22, 2014, 11:21:13 pm
‘It is the gothic elements of ghosts and time-shifts that give suspense to what is otherwise only a simple tale.’ Do you agree?
For the above question, I'm having difficulty in writing a paragraph concerning the ghosts and the gothic elements of the tale, can anyone give me a hand?
• Marley's Ghost - his 'ponderous chain' girded from 'cash boxes' and 'heavy purses wrought in steel'. Through this spectre, and the gothic element of the supernatural about the spectre, the repercussions of a life of avarice is amplified. • The ominous and anonymous Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come. He has an enigma about him, and his abstinence from talking really intensifies the gothic raiment about him. This is intended to not only instil his protagonist with fear, but incorporate an enthralling element into the backbone of his morality tale. • Dickens reinstates the powers of the spirits through demonstrating their abilities to create temporal inconsistencies.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: faredcarsking123 on October 23, 2014, 12:22:57 am
• Marley's Ghost - his 'ponderous chain' girded from 'cash boxes' and 'heavy purses wrought in steel'. Through this spectre, and the gothic element of the supernatural about the spectre, the repercussions of a life of avarice is amplified. • The ominous and anonymous Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come. He has an enigma about him, and his abstinence from talking really intensifies the gothic raiment about him. This is intended to not only instil his protagonist with fear, but incorporate an enthralling element into the backbone of his morality tale. • Dickens reinstates the powers of the spirits through demonstrating their abilities to create temporal inconsistencies.
Thanks Yacoubb!! Helped a lot! ;D
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: faredcarsking123 on October 23, 2014, 03:38:42 pm
Hello again.
Can anyone help me with these two questions?
Compare and Contrast the three ghosts to consider which one is most effective in bringing about Scrooge's change of heart.
'Despite the name of the novella, A Christmas Carol is about charity no matter the season.' Do you agree?
EDIT: And also, what can be said of the time shifts in A Christmas Carol besides the enthralling aspect of it?
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: LFC_Kero on October 24, 2014, 09:38:50 pm
Need ideas and paragpraph structures for these prompts "A Christmas Carol is an entertaining novel which also unsettles the reader." Discuss. "By the end of ACC, Scrooge is a changed man. How is his redemption achieved." "Scrooge suffers more from ignorance than from selfishness." Discuss.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on October 24, 2014, 10:53:07 pm
Need ideas and paragpraph structures for these prompts "A Christmas Carol is an entertaining novel which also unsettles the reader." Discuss. "By the end of ACC, Scrooge is a changed man. How is his redemption achieved." "Scrooge suffers more from ignorance than from selfishness." Discuss.
"A Christmas Carol is an entertaining novel which also unsettles the reader." Discuss. In this question, you need to attend to it being an entertaining novella, as well as the elements of the novella that are unsettling. The enthralling elements (e.g. supernatural beings, gothic settings, temporal inconsistencies) as well as the sinister messages that Dickens conveys to the readership, are the unsettling elements you should attend to.
Body Paragraph One: Entertaining - The actual title - reinstating musical qualities of the novella (light-hearted nature) through associating story with a carol - Christmas setting - Scrooge's comical character
Body Paragraph Two: Enthralling Elements - Scrooge's transformation is mediated by supernatural beings - Spirits are capable of creating temporal inconsistencies (enunciates the power of the supernatural that is intended to unsettle the reader).
Body Paragraph Three: - Through the redoubtable Scrooge, Dickens reinstates that failing to mend his avaricious ways in life will condemn him to an afterlife of an 'incessant torture of remorse'. - Dickens insinuates that a lifetime of being engrossed by the 'master passion, Gain' as opposed to human relations and 'affectionate grouping' will result in an individual's death being rejoiced, and their lasting memory will only be negative (discuss this in relation to Scrooge).
Body Paragraph Four: - Dickens indicates that the negligence of the Victorian elite has contributed to the appalling living conditions of the 'half-naked' poor of the slums (discuss the children of men, Ignorance and Want, and also the looters, and how these are allegorical figures of the Victorian under-class that has been stripped of their human qualities by the elite). - Dickens proposes that by failing to nurture the poor, the poor will take from the wealthy all they were deprived on when they become 'bereft, unwatched, uncared' corposes following their death (discuss in relation to the looters, and how they profit from Scrooge's death through the theft of objects as trivial as an 'old fashioned silver teaspoon'.
"By the end of A Christmas Carol, Scrooge is a changed man". How is his redemption achieved? Key word in that question - how. This means that we need to discuss Dickens' conscious decisions in the structure of the narrative, that enable Scrooge to achieve a successful and enduring redemption.
I would tackle the following points: - Dickens mirrors his narrative structure on the tri-temporal process of healing that he indicates is essential for Scrooge's reclamation. The consummation comes down to the single quote: 'I will live in the Past, the Present and the Future'.
BODY PARAGRAPH ONE: - Dickens indicates that first, Scrooge must accept that he is at fault and that he is need of redemption so as to avoid the 'incessant torture of remorse' that his former companion Jacob Marley currently suffers.
BODY PARAGRAPH TWO: - The author insinuates that delving into the past is an integral element of redemption. Through venturing into 'the Past', Scrooge recognises the happiness and love that he has repressed as a result of being engrossed by the 'master passion, Gain', as well as to work out the origins of his present condition.
BODY PARAGRAPH THREE: - Having acknowledged that his bitter pursuit of wealth has cost him the 'joy, the gratitude and the ecstacy' that he witnesses in the lives of those around him EXCEPT his, Scrooge must now witness the communal theme of 'affectionate grouping'. I would somewhere in this paragraph mention that he must witness this after his heart has softened to visions of his childhood, which as a reader we know makes his 'cold eye glisten' and his 'heart [leap]'.
BODY PARAGRAPH FOUR: - Now, Scrooge is at a position where he realises the essence of changing. Dickens indicates that after being guided by the previous spirits, Scrooge must now articulate his own failings to conclude the final chapter of this redemptive strategy. He must also witness the repercussions of his ignorance on himself and others, and his admission 'I am not the man I was' underscores the success of this.
Make sure with this essay you continuously refer to Dickens - tbh, just writing this plan was almost like constructing a plan for language analysis lol.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: LFC_Kero on October 24, 2014, 11:01:01 pm
Thanks sooo much yacoubb!!!! legend is an understatement ;D ;D 8)
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on October 24, 2014, 11:03:42 pm
Thanks sooo much yacoubb!!!! legend is an understatement ;D ;D 8)
Haha no worries :)
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: nhmn0301 on October 26, 2014, 08:19:48 am
Does anyone here have a general prediction of what this year prompt will be about ::)? ACC is in its last year now so hopefully the prompt wont be so hard. I think VCAA haven't focused on minor character and Dickens' construction yet.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on October 26, 2014, 08:32:27 am
Does anyone here have a general prediction of what this year prompt will be about ::)? ACC is in its last year now so hopefully the prompt wont be so hard. I think VCAA haven't focused on minor character and Dickens' construction yet.
Yeah I think they may look at HOW Dickens shows Scrooge's redemption, so the construction of his redemption. Something else they haven't really delved into is the role of the supernatural beings in A Christmas Carol, and their roles in Scrooge's redemption.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: katiesaliba on October 26, 2014, 11:18:02 am
Although VCAA exams are easily accessible (duh), I made a Word document of all the past ACC VCAA prompts which might be helpful to you guys :)
I'm hoping for a prompt about redemption!
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: LFC_Kero on October 26, 2014, 03:43:25 pm
"How does A Christmas Carol show the importance of family to an individuals happiness" Cratchits - not wealthy but are happy Scrooge - worldly ignorance, no family spirit - miserly what else?
Also "Why show me this, if I am past all hope?" 'It is fear for his future, rather than genuine remorse or generosity of spirit, that causes Scrooge to change.' Do you agree? The quote in the prompt, im not sure how you would talk about it - does it show that he only wants to change if it is still possible that he can redeem himself? suggesting that he only cares about self preservation I believe he changes from genuine remorse or generosity of spirit arguments: experiences his own emotions during journey of redemption when he returns, his actions resemble a man who has truly changed from the heart, "his own heart laughed," and "glowing with his good intentions" etc... i need a third paragraph, im not sure?
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: faredcarsking123 on October 26, 2014, 05:34:56 pm
How would you characterise the genre of A Christmas Carol?
0.0 O.o O.O
Never seen a text response question like that, how would one answer such??
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: katiesaliba on October 26, 2014, 09:14:45 pm
Also "Why show me this, if I am past all hope?" 'It is fear for his future, rather than genuine remorse or generosity of spirit, that causes Scrooge to change.' Do you agree? The quote in the prompt, im not sure how you would talk about it - does it show that he only wants to change if it is still possible that he can redeem himself? suggesting that he only cares about self preservation I believe he changes from genuine remorse or generosity of spirit arguments: experiences his own emotions during journey of redemption when he returns, his actions resemble a man who has truly changed from the heart, "his own heart laughed," and "glowing with his good intentions" etc... i need a third paragraph, im not sure?
I would also challenge the prompt and talk about the fear that he felt: - when he found out that his body would be "unwanted and uncared for" after death, he realized that a transformation was vital - after he saw his own tombstone, he said that "I will honour Christmas in my heart" portraying that the change occurred immediately after experiencing this fate
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on October 26, 2014, 10:01:43 pm
How would you characterise the genre of A Christmas Carol?
0.0 O.o O.O
Never seen a text response question like that, how would one answer such??
Essentially, A Christmas Carol is a morality tale. However, there are elements of the text which make it a gothic fiction, elements that make it a Christmas about story, elements that make it an allegory. How I would structure that essay:
Essentially, A Christmas Carol is a morality tale. However, there are elements of the text which make it a gothic fiction, elements that make it a Christmas about story, elements that make it an allegory. How I would structure that essay:
Could you basically structure it like the essay about is the novella entertaining, enthralling and educating?
Thanks :)
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: faredcarsking123 on October 27, 2014, 10:57:07 am
Sorry, I've got another question
For : Discuss the role of the supernatural beings in A Christmas Carol. Do we need to mention anything about them being allegorical or representing remembering ones's past, etc?
Also, if the question said 'Ghosts' and not supernatural beings, are we expected not to mention Ignorance and Want?
Thanks in advance.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Jawnle on October 27, 2014, 11:15:06 am
'It is fear for his future, rather than genuine remorse or generosity of spirit, that causes Scrooge to change.' Do you agree?
I'm kind of unsure about one of my arguments. I'm arguing that it is difficult for readers to accept that the change was fueled by genuine intentions because of Scrooge’s appalling attitudes and appearance. Is this argument too weak and vague? I was thinking of adding in the appearance of Jacob Marley's ghost in conjunction with the argument.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on October 27, 2014, 01:12:45 pm
For : Discuss the role of the supernatural beings in A Christmas Carol. Do we need to mention anything about them being allegorical or representing remembering ones's past, etc?
Also, if the question said 'Ghosts' and not supernatural beings, are we expected not to mention Ignorance and Want?
Thanks in advance.
For this essay, I only spoke about the spectres, and spoke about both how they are allegorical & how they help Scrooge.
I mentioned Ignorance and Want when I mentioned the role of the Ghost of Christmas Present. He is the one who shows Scrooge the 'scowling, wolfish' pair, Ignorance and Want, and how Scrooge recognises that these children's conditions are the consequences of social-utilitarianism, etc.
'It is fear for his future, rather than genuine remorse or generosity of spirit, that causes Scrooge to change.' Do you agree?
I'm kind of unsure about one of my arguments. I'm arguing that it is difficult for readers to accept that the change was fueled by genuine intentions because of Scrooge’s appalling attitudes and appearance. Is this argument too weak and vague? I was thinking of adding in the appearance of Jacob Marley's ghost in conjunction with the argument.
I think what you COULD do is discuss how structurally, Dickens constructs the core interest of the novella on the tension between the apparent unlikelihood of Scrooge ever changing, and the redemptive strategy that Jacob Marley enunciates.
I'd probably talk about that if the question had : 'Even after his redemption'..., where I'd probably be instructed to discuss how his life is dictated by fear prior to his reclamation.
For this essay I just stuck with 3 body paragraphs, discussing how initially he is motivated to change by his fear on non-being, those around him remembering for nothing but a grotesque miser, having his belongings stolen by Mrs Dilber and her accomplices, etc, following that up with how this eventually metamorphoses into a genuine emotional response that inclines him to practice generosity of spirit (substaniate this by saying how Scrooge could have simply raised Cratchit's salary and continued treating him poorly, but his decision to place a 'prize turkey' on the Cratchits' table on Christmas day, and invite his brow-beaten clerk for a 'bowl of smoking Bishop' reinstates his genuine spiritual transformation as a result of this pilgrimage he has taken.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: faredcarsking123 on October 27, 2014, 03:14:02 pm
Can anyone assist me with one more thing?
How do the appearances of the three ghosts affect Scrooge?
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on October 27, 2014, 03:37:46 pm
How do the appearances of the three ghosts affect Scrooge?
What is the 'bright clear jet of light' that protrudes from the head of the Spirit of Christmas Past symbolic of? The illuminating power of the truth... is Scrooge ready to accept the truth? Remember how he tries to extinguish the light by attempting to stifle the flames with the extinguishing cap? He cannot handle the truth - the truth in this case, that he has missed out on 'the joy, the gratitude and the ecstasy' that Belle and her family share in their home 'full of comfort'.
The Ghost of Christmas Present is a 'jolly giant' - he is the paragon of celebration and charity, and is larger-than-life to enunciate the Abundance that is rejoiced during Christmas.
The Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come - ominous and anonymous, he never speaks, has en enigmatic shroud enveloping him - it's an austere image that Dickens intends to create within the reader's mind, and evoke sheer suspense within them to amplify the message that life of 'opportunities misused' with result in non-being and an afterlife of 'incessant torture of remorse'.
Jacob Marley - he has constructed a 'ponderous chain', girded 'link by link' from 'cash-boxes', 'padlocks' and 'heavy purses wrought in steel'. This is emblematic of the encumbrances that Marley must now carry in his after-life, ultimately as a repercussion of failing to lead a life immersed in human relations, and instead living a life of greed in the bitter pursuit of wealth.
Now think about all the things that those are emblematic of ^^. :)
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: faredcarsking123 on October 27, 2014, 03:49:51 pm
What is the 'bright clear jet of light' that protrudes from the head of the Spirit of Christmas Past symbolic of? The illuminating power of the truth... is Scrooge ready to accept the truth? Remember how he tries to extinguish the light by attempting to stifle the flames with the extinguishing cap? He cannot handle the truth - the truth in this case, that he has missed out on 'the joy, the gratitude and the ecstasy' that Belle and her family share in their home 'full of comfort'.
The Ghost of Christmas Present is a 'jolly giant' - he is the paragon of celebration and charity, and is larger-than-life to enunciate the Abundance that is rejoiced during Christmas.
The Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come - ominous and anonymous, he never speaks, has en enigmatic shroud enveloping him - it's an austere image that Dickens intends to create within the reader's mind, and evoke sheer suspense within them to amplify the message that life of 'opportunities misused' with result in non-being and an afterlife of 'incessant torture of remorse'.
Jacob Marley - he has constructed a 'ponderous chain', girded 'link by link' from 'cash-boxes', 'padlocks' and 'heavy purses wrought in steel'. This is emblematic of the encumbrances that Marley must now carry in his after-life, ultimately as a repercussion of failing to lead a life immersed in human relations, and instead living a life of greed in the bitter pursuit of wealth.
Now think about all the things that those are emblematic of ^^. :)
Sorry, I don't think my question was clear, although all of this ^ was very helpful anyway!
I mean what sort of impression does the appearance create on Scrooge.
For example, The Ghost of Christmas present, being a 'jolly giant', is inviting and welcoming to Scrooge, he doesnt really fear him.
I'm not sure about the rest
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on October 27, 2014, 03:58:06 pm
Sorry, I don't think my question was clear, although all of this ^ was very helpful anyway!
I mean what sort of impression does the appearance create on Scrooge.
For example, The Ghost of Christmas present, being a 'jolly giant', is inviting and welcoming to Scrooge, he doesnt really fear him.
I'm not sure about the rest
Oh, lol! Well what I wrote could still somehow be incorporated into an essay of that nature. :)
Ghost of Christmas Past: as if to reflect the very nature of memory itself, is described as having 'fluctuated in its distinctness'. Scrooge does not really fear this spectre either.
Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come: this phantom, ominous and anonymous in its gothic raiment, is deeply feared by Scrooge. This is the intended effect by Marley who commisions these spectres. This enigmatic phantom ultimately sways Scrooge to conclude the final chapter of his pilgrimage to redemption by allowing him to articulate his own failings.
Marley's Ghost: well he fears Marley's 'dreadful apparition' - why? I personally believe that this is beyond just seeing a spectre and element of the supernatural. It's the fact that Marley is his close companion, and to see the 'incessant torture of remorse' that Marley suffers in his own after-life renders what Marley says about the essence of reforming so much more real. Bottom line - if Scrooge doesn't change, he'll be doomed just like Marley is. Paradoxically though, Dickens sends marley NOT to scare him to the point where he rejects this entire strategy. Instead, constructing Marley as Scrooge's friend means that Scrooge can be at ease and trust that Marley holds his friend's best interests at heart!
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: christianb on October 27, 2014, 04:58:42 pm
since its the final year for ACC, they haven't offered a structural based prompt, do you think it is highly likely this year?
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on October 27, 2014, 05:00:25 pm
since its the final year for ACC, they haven't offered a structural based prompt, do you think it is highly likely this year?
Perhaps something on HOW Scrooge is redeemed, discussing 'the Past, the Present and the Future' that Dickens: 1. Moulds Scrooge's transformation on 2. Mirrors in his novella (the actual narrative structure).
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on October 27, 2014, 05:06:11 pm
yes that could be character based i think, how bout something along the lines of the narrative voice used to show dickens message?
I don't think they would do that because it would be too difficult! VCAA aims to create questions/prompts that are supposedly accessible to students of all spectrums of ability (to a certan extent, of course).
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: christianb on October 27, 2014, 05:09:04 pm
ok in terms of thematic questions, do you have any idea what their could offer? because they always i think give an option between a character and theme question
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on October 27, 2014, 05:11:23 pm
ok in terms of thematic questions, do you have any idea what their could offer? because they always i think give an option between a character and theme question
VCAA hasn't really delved into how moral corruption/greed is synonymous with wealth. Perhaps something on that? Also, different forms of poverty that exist?
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: christianb on October 27, 2014, 05:14:11 pm
ok thankyou! this thread is very useful :)
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: christianb on October 27, 2014, 05:15:42 pm
also sorry but 1 last question is this a good plan for this prompt? how does acc show the importance of family to an individuals happiness? (don't want to simply talk about in each paragraph about how family is connected to ones happiness but I'm not not entirely sure since the question says "how" and not "to what extent does...." or ). "Discuss". This is how i would structure it:
P1-importance of family to ones happiness through examples of Cratchits, Fred and Belle. Scrooge thus realises the need to have a family like 'one of them'.
P2- Christmas is also connected to happiness- "air of cheerfulness" amongst "poor revellers". also how generosity during this festive time is connected to happiness evident through Fezziwigs all inclusive approach and Fred resuming to 'drink his wealth'.
P3- depicts the inferior form of poverty- the need to help as theyr are unhappy-anguish in the afterlife if they are ignorant towrads the plight of the poor- lack of happiness shown through Marley.
p4- acc shows that money is not conencted to happiness show through the Cratchit famly and their solidarity in the face of financial poverty- denouncing prejudice against the poor. What do you think?
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: faredcarsking123 on October 27, 2014, 05:27:06 pm
also sorry but 1 last question is this a good plan for this prompt? how does acc show the importance of family to an individuals happiness? (don't want to simply talk about in each paragraph about how family is connected to ones happiness but I'm not not entirely sure since the question says "how" and not "to what extent does...." or ). "Discuss". This is how i would structure it:
P1-importance of family to ones happiness through examples of Cratchits, Fred and Belle. Scrooge thus realises the need to have a family like 'one of them'.
P2- Christmas is also connected to happiness- "air of cheerfulness" amongst "poor revellers". also how generosity during this festive time is connected to happiness evident through Fezziwigs all inclusive approach and Fred resuming to 'drink his wealth'.
P3- depicts the inferior form of poverty- the need to help as theyr are unhappy-anguish in the afterlife if they are ignorant towrads the plight of the poor- lack of happiness shown through Marley.
p4- acc shows that money is not conencted to happiness show through the Cratchit famly and their solidarity in the face of financial poverty- denouncing prejudice against the poor. What do you think?
Like you said, I think because it says 'how does' then you can't really put three paragraphs on different elements that bring happiness, it would have to be one on Cratchits, one on Belle, one on Fred. However, I doubt VCAA would put such a restrictive question.
Also, does anyone know some other words to use instead of Victorian elite? :D
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on October 27, 2014, 05:31:14 pm
Like you said, I think because it says 'how does' then you can't really put three paragraphs on different elements that bring happiness, it would have to be one on Cratchits, one on Belle, one on Fred. However, I doubt VCAA would put such a restrictive question.
I 100% agree with this. It's really annoying how a lot of companies actually construct questions that are restrictive, and don't give you an opportunity to develop at least three sustained arguments. For instance, take VCAA 2011, 'entertaining, enthralling, educational'. This question gave students the opportunity to develop arguments for: 1. entertaining (BP1) 2. enthralling (BP2) 3. educational (BP3)
VCAA could have said, Although Dickens' story is entertaining, it is intended to educate.
Quote
does anyone know some other words to use instead of Victorian elite?
Merchant class, wealthy, bourgeoisie? not sure about this one <--
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: christianb on October 27, 2014, 05:33:51 pm
so it is highly unlikely they would be so restrictive? if they mentioned to what extent.... would i be able to include all the factors i mentioned for my plan then?
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on October 27, 2014, 05:36:51 pm
so it is highly unlikely they would be so restrictive? if they mentioned to what extent.... would i be able to include all the factors i mentioned for my plan then?
Yep :) so you'd say family is (to a certain extent) an integral part of happiness. However, it would be remiss to overlook the other factors that provide happiness. --> Being generous (happiness and a sense of self-fulfillment in creating happiness for others). --> Celebrations of the Yuletide season (e.g. Fred, Fezziwig)
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: christianb on October 27, 2014, 05:39:45 pm
ok thank you that would also be the case if it had DISCUSS at the end of the statement? sorry just making sure with the terminology
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on October 27, 2014, 05:41:09 pm
ok thank you that would also be the case if it had DISCUSS at the end of the statement? sorry just making sure with the terminology
Well if it were something like:
Discuss the different factors that contribute to one's happiness. <-- what an awkward question LOL. It would probably come with a quote if it did come in this way. :)
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: mikehepro on October 27, 2014, 08:16:04 pm
Times for some killer prompts: Any ideas will be appreciated, hehe. 1. Dickens dedicated his novella to "the ghost of an idea." What ideas does he summons for his readers? 2. Fred speaks of christmas as a time of "fellow passengers". In what ways does this reflect the events of ACC??
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Edward Elric on October 27, 2014, 08:53:58 pm
A very likely question on Wednesdays examination, 'To What extent do the ghosts in A Christmas Carol, play a role in Scrooge's redemption'. Not quite sure how to structure this essay, maybe by each ghost, so bp1 maybe past, bp 2 present etc... How would you guys do it? So Far my ideas are:
Christmas Past-
Childhood
awakens Scrooge's 'long, long forgotten [memories], of a childhood doused in in neglect and solitude. Brings out Scrooges tender emotions, in which he was 'conscious of a thousand odors' of his childhood, recounting everything and everyone, with 'earnestness' and an 'extraordinary voice'. Enables Scrooge to witness himself as a 'neglected child' making him sympathetic to the earlier Caroler he dismissed, 'I should like to have given him something'. Not only this but he is also desensitized and receptive to children later in the novella, like Tiny Tim and the turkey boy.
Belle Scene-
Serves as a symbolic punishment for Scrooge's choice of lifestyle, and also what he could of had if Scrooge had cultivated happiness and humanity instead of wealth.
Fezziwig- allows Scrooge to realize the responsibility that an employee have towards their employers, Scrooge thinking of his clerk highlighting another important step towards his redemption.
Maybe a rebuttal paragraph discussing how Scrooges redemption was not solely due to the visitations of the three spirits, but also because of Scrooge willing to change and acknowledging his past mistakes and failures. Essentially the ghosts, catalyses Scrooges own internal thoughts of becoming a changed man. For he could of decided to take the lessons with a grain of salt, but genuinely felt the need to change.
Any more ideas to add guys? Would be much appreciated
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on October 28, 2014, 07:25:12 am
Times for some killer prompts: Any ideas will be appreciated, hehe. 1. Dickens dedicated his novella to "the ghost of an idea." What ideas does he summons for his readers? 2. Fred speaks of christmas as a time of "fellow passengers". In what ways does this reflect the events of ACC??
1. Ideas he summons for his readers: * The essence of being generous towards others, financially and otherwise [2 body paragraphs could be derived from this]. * The essence of being immersed in human relations > pursuit of wealth. * The essence of treating employees properly during a time of social utilitarianism.
2. Fellow passengers (this reiterates the essence of establishing human relations). Well I'd discuss how Christmas is a time where people are prosperous. This is made possible by the 'affectionate grouping' during the yuletide season. - Scrooge is bereft of human relations, and is condemned to his bitter pursuit of wealth (he doesn't realise this until he visits Belle in her home 'full of comfort'. So, possessing no relation with 'fellow passengers' is one bereft of love. - The essence of family and celebration (you could delve into the miners celebrating Christmas/Fred's party/Fezziwig's party). - Fellow passengers also means generosity. If we are fellow passengers to the grave, we don't focus too much on the dichotomised society that is existent. So we bestow upon others care/generosity, etc.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Yacoubb on October 28, 2014, 07:30:13 am
A very likely question on Wednesdays examination, 'To What extent do the ghosts in A Christmas Carol, play a role in Scrooge's redemption'. Not quite sure how to structure this essay, maybe by each ghost, so bp1 maybe past, bp 2 present etc... How would you guys do it? So Far my ideas are:
Christmas Past-
Childhood
awakens Scrooge's 'long, long forgotten [memories], of a childhood doused in in neglect and solitude. Brings out Scrooges tender emotions, in which he was 'conscious of a thousand odors' of his childhood, recounting everything and everyone, with 'earnestness' and an 'extraordinary voice'. Enables Scrooge to witness himself as a 'neglected child' making him sympathetic to the earlier Caroler he dismissed, 'I should like to have given him something'. Not only this but he is also desensitized and receptive to children later in the novella, like Tiny Tim and the turkey boy.
Belle Scene-
Serves as a symbolic punishment for Scrooge's choice of lifestyle, and also what he could of had if Scrooge had cultivated happiness and humanity instead of wealth.
Fezziwig- allows Scrooge to realize the responsibility that an employee have towards their employers, Scrooge thinking of his clerk highlighting another important step towards his redemption.
Maybe a rebuttal paragraph discussing how Scrooges redemption was not solely due to the visitations of the three spirits, but also because of Scrooge willing to change and acknowledging his past mistakes and failures. Essentially the ghosts, catalyses Scrooges own internal thoughts of becoming a changed man. For he could of decided to take the lessons with a grain of salt, but genuinely felt the need to change.
Any more ideas to add guys? Would be much appreciated
I would place a rebuttal in each of my paragraph. So yes, the spirits present Scrooge with A, B and C. But it is Scrooge who reacts to these stimuli emotionally, in order to be redeemed (doesn't Dickens insinuate that this is necessary? I mean, Scrooge articulating a means to redeem himself is pivotal to the miser's own ethical and emotional transformation. :)
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: faredcarsking123 on October 28, 2014, 09:50:17 am
One last ACC question before the exam :) ;) :D ;D 8) ::) :-\ :-* :'( :'(
What are the time shifts used for in the novella?
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: vididid on October 28, 2014, 10:01:54 am
One last ACC question before the exam :) ;) :D ;D 8) ::) :-\ :-* :'( :'(
What are the time shifts used for in the novella?
Hey, I think they are used to maintain interest and continue to engage the readers, as well as allowing the messages to resonate and uphold their relevance as 3/5ths of the novella is centred around the present Victorian era and even when shifting time and place Dickens retains his hold on the present t to convey that the central messages are directed towards the middle-class of his current time.
not sure if that 100% right but... I tried?
also does anyone have more 'killer' prompts just to stimulate the mind, I guess?
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: faredcarsking123 on October 28, 2014, 11:09:57 am
'I will live in the Past, and Present, and the Future!' Scrooge's redemption proves that destinies may be changed. Discuss.
Is this set up ok?
1 - Scrooge's initial destiny and how Marely's warning cautions readers of the need for change making them attentive to the lessons to come.
2 - How the remembrance of one's part can awaken the dormant sentiments in them and arouse their compassionate nature.
3 - The realisation that of one's miserable present which demonstrates to them the important things in life.
4 - The future prophecies that depict the 'Doom' that will occur due to the narcissistic ways of the protagonist which ultimately certifies his atonement as he declares that he will 'live in the past, the present, and the Future', demonstrating that through these elements one's destiny can be changed.
Do we need to actually give examples of his renewed character, or is it enough to mention that he will 'live in the past, the present, and the Future'?
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: vididid on October 28, 2014, 11:25:23 am
'I will live in the Past, and Present, and the Future!' Scrooge's redemption proves that destinies may be changed. Discuss.
Is this set up ok?
1 - Scrooge's initial destiny and how Marely's warning cautions readers of the need for change making them attentive to the lessons to come.
2 - How the remembrance of one's part can awaken the dormant sentiments in them and arouse their compassionate nature.
3 - The realisation that of one's miserable present which demonstrates to them the important things in life.
4 - The future prophecies that depict the 'Doom' that will occur due to the narcissistic ways of the protagonist which ultimately certifies his atonement as he declares that he will 'live in the past, the present, and the Future', demonstrating that through these elements one's destiny can be changed.
Do we need to actually give examples of his renewed character, or is it enough to mention that he will 'live in the past, the present, and the Future'?
personally, I would quote some relevant and contrasting changes 'the cold within him froze his features' to 'glowing with good intentions' he eschewed family and familial connections but develops them 'to tiny Tim who did not die he was a second father' and his dinner with Fred, 'even his own heart laughed'
Maybe even say that Dickens extends this change in fate to societal reform as Ebenezer Scrooge is an embodiment of all the negative traits within the Victorian era and hence dickens suggests redemption can be achieved within his own society.
Title: Re: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Thread
Post by: Rishi97 on October 28, 2014, 12:04:29 pm
Could someone please have a quick read over my intro and BP 1 for the following topic: What role do the spirits play in Scrooge’s transformation? Discuss
In the evocative novella A Christmas Carol, we encounter a world where social inequality lurks beneath an otherwise entertaining and enthralling novel. Set against a backdrop of rapid social change, Dickens novella depicts the inspiring transformation of protagonist Ebenezer Scrooge who on a spiritual journey, is given the opportunity to amend his past mistakes and become a beacon of joy, festivity and benevolence. By establishing a team of supernatural agents, Dickens aims to show Scrooge what he must learn about himself by learning about the truth of his past, the reality of his present and the risk inherent in his future. The dual team consisting of the ghost of Christmas Past and the ghost of Christmas Present emphasize the importance of family and generosity whilst the Ghost of Christmas Yet to come provides Scrooge an insight to what his life will become if change is not embraced. Thus, Dickens construction of the spirits, aids in Scrooge’s transformation whilst also reminding the readers to value things such as generosity and the Christmas spirit in order to truly live a content life.
In stave 1, readers are immediately exposed to Scrooge’s personal qualities as Dickens describes him as a “scraping, wrenching…covetous old sinner.” The exaggeration of his physical qualities of having a “shrivelled nose” as well as clear contrasts with the weather as “external heat and cold had no influence upon Scrooge”, immediately asserts to readers of the reason why change within Scrooge is so necessary. With the assistance of the Ghost of Christmas Past, Scrooge is taken to his childhood where he is forced to relive his experience of being a “neglected child” living a solitary and lonely future. Here we see a fissure appearing in Scrooge’s otherwise frigid character as his “lip trembled” when he realises the emotions he felt as a child. Further eluding him to feel remorse and regret for not giving anything to the “boy singing at [his] door last night.” Scrooge realises the importance of generosity and giving towards others particularly during Christmas time. Through symbolism, the continuous shape shifting of the Ghost of Christmas Past as he is “like a child yet not so like a child”, expresses to Scrooge that it is not too hard to change and that change within him is possible. Dickens’ uses this opportunity to remind readers that everyone is capable of change even those that are as “cold” and “bitter” as Scrooge. Thus, Dickens use of highly descriptive terms when describing the old “miser” and the slight transformation that occurs, iterates the importance of the Ghost of Christmas Past in Scrooge realising the importance of generosity and caring.