Scrooge - social injustice

Key Quote

“If they would rather die, they had better do it, and decrease the surplus population.” (Stave 1) "

Technique 1

The harsh consonance (repeated sounds) shows Scrooge’s cold, stingy attitude towards the poor. His view reflects society’s indifference (lack of concern) to poverty and human suffering."

RAD

Scrooge is emblematic (symbol of) Malthusian thinking, seeing the poor as disposable burdens.

Technique 2

The conditional (uncertain possibility) “if” shows Scrooge treats poor lives as unimportant and hypothetical. His thinking reflects dehumanising (not treated as human) industrial values that prioritise profit over people."

Context

Industrial Revolution: Scrooge’s selfishness reflects neglect (lack of care) for poor workers during profit-driven industrial growth. Malthus: His views show a Malthusian (population-based) belief that poverty is natural and acceptable."

WOW

"Scrooge learns moral duty (obligation to do right), moving from selfishness to helping others. His change follows Kant ’s imperative (universal rule) that all lives deserve equal respect."""