Society's responses to poverty

How does A Christmas Carol reflect the societal need to address poverty?

Dickens warns that poverty must be tackled collectively before it spirals out of control, using Scrooge’s redemption to illustrate change.

What were workhouses, and how does A Christmas Carol criticize them?

Workhouses were harsh institutions where the poor had to go for aid under the 1834 New Poor Law. Scrooge’s cold reaction—stating they are in “full vigour”—reflects the apathy of the rich.

How does A Christmas Carol represent charity?

The “Portly Gentlemen” ask Scrooge for a donation, reflecting Victorian philanthropy, but many believed charity encouraged laziness and bad behaviour.

How does Dickens highlight ignorance about poverty?

Scrooge says he cannot afford to make “idle people merry,” equating poverty with laziness—a common prejudice among the wealthy.

Why did some Victorians oppose charity?

Many thought poverty was a choice and that charity rewarded bad behaviour like drinking and gambling.

How did Dickens believe poverty could be solved?

Through education. Ragged schools were created to provide basic learning for poor children.

How does A Christmas Carol reinforce the importance of education?

Dickens presents “Ignorance” and “Want” as symbolic children, warning that ignorance leads to “doom.”