A Christmas Carol - Lesson 3 - Dickens' Technique 2 Worksheet

In the third lesson of 'A Christmas Carol', students explore Charles Dickens' narrative techniques through a worksheet that examines a passage from the text. The excerpt focuses on the character of Scrooge, who is depicted as having a complex relationship with his deceased business partner. Dickens' use of repetition is evident as he emphasizes Scrooge's solitary connection to the deceased by repeatedly using the word "sole". This literary device highlights the depth of Scrooge's isolation and his unwavering focus on business, even on the day of his partner's funeral. The passage serves to illustrate Scrooge's character as someone who is emotionally detached and singularly driven by his work, setting the stage for his transformation throughout the story.

The worksheet likely encourages students to analyse how Dickens crafts his narrative to develop characters and themes. Through this particular segment, it becomes clear that Scrooge's character is not only bereft of close relationships but also that his priorities are skewed towards financial gain over personal connections. The choice of words paints a vivid picture of Scrooge's nature before his redemptive journey begins, providing a stark contrast to the changes he undergoes by the end of the novel. Students are invited to delve into the text, uncovering the methods by which Dickens conveys his moral message and engages the reader with the protagonist's eventual transformation.