1. Literary Elements in A Christmas Carol

2. Theme
The main idea of a story, the hidden message that the author wants the reader to understand
It is not the specific events of the story. This is the plot.

3. Themes in A Christmas Carol
Emotional wealth and happiness are more important than material wealth.
It is better to give than receive.
The Golden Rule – Treat others as you would want to be treated.
Use love and compassion with all humanity.

4. Character Motivation
The reason that partially or completely explains a character’s thoughts, feelings, actions, and words.
i.e. – Johnny Cade, from The Outsiders, is nervous and quiet because he has been abused by his parents and has been jumped by the Socs.

5. Character Motivation in A Christmas Carol
Look for clues to recognize why Scrooge acts a certain way.
What has made him into the man he is?

6. Symbolism The use of an object to represent something else.
i.e. – The Stars and Stripes represent the USA.
The Statue of Liberty represents freedom.

7. Symbolism in A Christmas Carol
Figure out what the following symbols represent.
The bells that Marley wears
Marley’s mouth fettered shut
The youth of Ghost of Christmas Past
The chains and register around Marley’s waist
Urchins hiding under the skirt of the Ghost of Christmas Present
The Ghost of Christmas Present that grows old so fast
The figure of the Spirit of Christmas Yet to Come who doesn’t speak and has a long black cloak hiding the face

8. Irony When the opposite of what you expect happens
i.e. – A firefighter sets fire to a building.

9. Irony in A Christmas Carol
What is ironic about Belle’s wish for Scrooge?
What is ironic about Mrs. Cratchit’s wish for Scrooge?

10. Foreshadowing
A hint given by the author, as to what will happen later in the story

11. Foreshadowing in A Christmas Carol
What do the following quotes and situations foreshadow?
“Mister Marley has been dead these seven years. He died seven years ago this very night”
“Without their visits, you cannot hope to shun the path I tread.”
What does Marley’s ghost and visitation to Scrooge’s past foreshadow?
Bob Cratchit’s remarks about Tiny Tim’s appearance.