The Theme Of Family In Charles Dickenss A Christmas Carol

Charles Dickens weaves the theme of family, and all of its aspects, throughout his novel titled A Christmas Carol to create a compelling reminder of the value of perspective. The book’s main character, Scrooge, finds himself on a journey guided by three spirits, a journey which eventually serves to forever change his perspective on life. Dickens skillfully incorporates various pictures of family dynamics through all three of his â€Å"spirits†: The Ghost of Christmas Past, the Ghost of Christmas present, and the Ghost of Christmas yet to Come, evoking sentimental feelings in both the main character, Scrooge, and the reader. This story communicates the simple yet profound message that family, love, and kindness (all of which are commonly†¦show more content†¦Interestingly, this scene powerfully portrays the overarching theme of the book by illustrating what can happen when we compromise our perspectives. Following this bitter blow, the Ghost of Christmas Present leads Scrooge on a tour of two more families: that of his nephew and of his clerk. The vision of Scrooge’s clerk’s family – the Cratchits – paints an intricate example of the beauty of family. As Dickens explains, â€Å"They were not a handsome family; they were not well dressed; their shoes were far from being water-proof; their clothes were scanty†¦ But they were happy, grateful, pleased with one another, and contented with the times†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (page 54). The Cratchits possessed minimal earthly wealth, and even had an ill son, yet they displayed incredible joy! The joy, warmth, affection, and laughter surrounding the Cratchits’ Christmas celebration brought Scrooge to the realization that the â€Å"Christmas spirit† does not depend on any material possessions, or even on situations. Joy is a choice, and that choice is made easier when we are surrounded by the ones we love. The vision of Scrooge’s nephew serves to awaken Sc rooge to the fact that he himself had a family that would gladly welcome him. The nephew, in explaining to his family why he faithfully invited Scrooge to the celebration, said, â€Å"I mean to give him the same chance everyShow MoreRelatedCharles Dickens s Life And Life878 Words   |  4 PagesCharles Dickens was an adored, creative and respected British author of several literary pieces that are at this time are referred as classics. He was born on February 7, 1812, in Portsmouth which is located on the southern coast of England. Charles Dickens had a very rough upbringing. He didn’t have the ordinary life a child has. Between seven brothers and sisters he was the second born. 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