A Christmas Carol historical context

The Industrial Revolution and the Poor Law

• The Poor Law Amendment Act was passed by Parliament in 1834 which established the workhouse system. Families were separated and people had to work to pay off their debts. This system led to lots of suffering.

• Dickens himself was sent to a factory to work when he was 12 years old, separating him from his family because his father was in debt.

• Industrial Revolution increase in the production of factories (with a lower cost for manufacturers) expanded the gap between the upper and lower classes.

Literature Context

The novella is an allegory tale of redemption with the message that everyone is capable of change and highlights the importance of charity and kindness in society.

Mortality

• Victorian England experienced high rates of child mortality, especially in cities:

  • Malnourishment, disease and poverty were significant issues which contributed to the high death rate among children

  • Overcrowded and unsanitary living conditions in cities facilitated the spread of illnesses such as cholera, typhus and tuberculosis

  • The lack of access to clean water and adequate medical care further compounded these issues.