'A Christmas Carol': Dickens’ depictions of wealth and status
I can analyse how and why Dickens uses language to contrast his depictions of wealthy characters in 'A Christmas Carol'.
'A Christmas Carol': Dickens’ depictions of wealth and status
I can analyse how and why Dickens uses language to contrast his depictions of wealthy characters in 'A Christmas Carol'.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- Reputation was important to wealthy Victorians because it ensured access to power, influence and social connections.
- The wealthy lived in large houses and had lavish lifestyles, attending operas, dinner parties and embarking on holidays.
- Dickens uses negative language and words linked to the cold to imply Scrooge's life was lonely due to his selfishness.
- He uses positive language to present Fezziwig as a jolly, lively figure who is well-liked and respected.
- He contrasts his depictions of both men to suggest that compassion can ultimately lead to a happy life.
Keywords
Affluent - having a lot of wealth or money; rich or prosperous
Miser - a person who hoards wealth and is reluctant to spend it
Philanthropy - the act of giving money or resources to help others or support causes
Compassion - sympathy and concern for the suffering or misfortune of others, often with a desire to help
Semantic field - a group of words related in meaning and used in a certain context (e.g. emotions = happy, sad, angry)
Common misconception
Wealth alone guaranteed a high social status in Victorian society.
While wealth was important to securing high social status, reputation was extremely important to wealthy Victorians. Arranged marriages and inheritance were key levers to ensure a good family reputation.
To help you plan your year 11 english lesson on: 'A Christmas Carol': Dickens’ depictions of wealth and status, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 11 english lesson on: 'A Christmas Carol': Dickens’ depictions of wealth and status, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
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Explore more key stage 4 english lessons from the ‘A Christmas Carol’: a critique of Victorian values unit, dive into the full secondary english curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
There are two extracts from 'A Christmas Carol' used in the lesson which are available on the slide deck and in the additional materials.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
Lesson video
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