Scrooge Character Analysis Theme/Reflection Page 7 of the booklet

Sample Theme/Reflection One theme in A Christmas Carol is that being kind and generous to others is more important than monetary gain. The Ghost of Christmas Present makes this message clear to Scrooge when he warns against greed and selfishness. Scrooge eventually comes to understand that he should value kindness above want, for, as Marley says, “an act of kindness is like the first green grape of summer; one leads to another and another and another” (48). Scrooge’s realization is demonstrated by his willingness to donate to the poor because he knows it makes him happy. Scrooge’s character is evidence that one’s adult identity is shaped by events during childhood. In the case of Scrooge, his lonely existence, poverty, and lack of family support came together to make him the miser he was in Stave 1; however, his changed nature suggests that if one takes that first step to change one’s behavior , it will breed more and more change.

Debate the merits of the following zingers: A. In conclusion, I believe Scrooge’s character changed greatly. B. Although it seems that Scrooge’s personality is very much an ingrained part of his nature, his transformation suggests that our identities are not entirely fixed, and that we are, in truth, capable of great change. C. So, in conclusion, I think that at this time of giving one must be aware of all the Tiny Tims in his or her life, and be sure to give to the poor, especially children. D. Scrooge’s transformation from aloof to generous is finally complete when he whispers to the portly man that he would like to donate a healthy sum to the poor, thereby signaling to readers that he has broken the chain of greed.

Thursday, December 18th Please write the following checklist on the back of your half sheet: Today, I will do the following with my library time: Type draft of theme/conclusion paragraph Add images of symbols to each paragraph Print a copy of all 7 pages of the booklet