symbols and motifs

motif of weather

Metaphor of fog obscures Scrooge's vision and compassion.
•The use of plosives in Stave 1 reflect the suffering and harsh conditions. The fog (industry) affects everyone not just the poor
•The clear weather at the resolution to the novella symbolises Scrooge's clear vision and compassion. The religious language reveals his redemption and fulfilment of Christian values

It was cold, bleak, biting weather: foggy withal.' (Stave 1)
'No fog, no mist; clear, bright, jovial, cold.. Golden sunlight; Heavenly sky' (Stave 5)

Fire

Throughout the text, images of fire and brightness are used as symbols of emotional warmth, joy and companionship irrelevant of money.
•Scrooge's workplace and home is placed in direct contrast to this and his instruction to Bob to 'make up the fires' highlights his new compassionate side.

\'it looked like one coal' (Stave 1 - Bob Cratchit)
'Small fire in the grate' (Stave 1 - Scrooge's house)
'It was a very low fire indeed' (Stave 1 - Scrooge's house)
'feeble fire' (Stave 2 - Scrooge's school)
'fuel was heaped upon the fire' (Stave 2 - Fezziwig)
'fire made up' (Stave 3 - The Cratchits)
'assembled around a glowing fire.' (Stave 3 - miners)
'Make up the fires and buy another coal-scuttle' (Stave 5 - Scrooge to Bob Cratchit)

Light

•Scrooge exists in darkness at the beginning of the novella
•Light in Stave 2 represents the power of the past and how memories can enlighten and teach us about our future
•Fezziwig's purpose is to teach Scrooge about the role and responsibility as an employer
•The Ghost of Christmas Present's light symbolises knowledge and a reminder of the limitless supply of goodness in the world
•The light from the miners in Stave 3 remind us that even those in poor working conditions can be imbued with Christmas spirit.

Darkness was cheap and Scrooge liked it.' (Stave 1)
'bright clear jet of light' (Stave 2 - The Ghost of Christmas Past)
'a positive light appeared to issue from Fezziwig's calves... they shone...like moons' (Stave 2 - Fezziwig)

h