The spirits in the novella are solely responsible for Scrooge’s complete transformation. The use of capitalization, like in “the spirit stood among the graves and pointed down to One,” suggests to Scrooge the significance of this particular gravestone. Later, it is revealed that this gravestone belongs to Scrooge himself. In addition, Scrooge’s fear is evident when he questions, “are these shadows of the things that Will be or […] that May be?” This demonstrates that the Ghost of Christmas Yet To Come is successfully communicating with and frightening Scrooge. By directly showing Scrooge the consequences of his actions, the Ghost of Christmas Yet To Come plays a crucial role in catalyzing Scrooge’s transformation. Moreover, the phrase “trembling as he went” contrasts Scrooge’s earlier behavior described by Dickens as being “solemn as an oyster.” Perhaps Dickens used this contrast to illustrate that anyone, regardless of how solemn they may seem, has the potential to change for the better if they are confronted with the ramifications of their actions.
The Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come is depicted as silent and unmoving in the quote “The Spirit was immovable as ever,” which creates a creepy and unsettling atmosphere. Scrooge finds no solace or answers to his questions due to the ghost’s silence, greatly impacting him. The effect of this silent behavior is that Scrooge is left undistracted by reality and devoid of doubt. The quote “Assure me that I yet may change these shadows you have shown me” reaffirms Scrooge’s need for emotional support, which the ghost fails to provide. Additionally, Dickens may have included religious imagery such as “Holding up his hands in a last prayer” to resonate with the spiritual and religious beliefs of readers in the 1800s. This shows how Dickens intended for readers at that time to find this imagery more significant. Ultimately, Dickens employs this ghost as the final catalyst to prompt Scrooge’s transformation for the better.
Marley, Scrooge’s colleague, serves as another ghost used by Dickens to expedite Scrooge’s transformation. Initially, Marley demonstrates to Scrooge the repercussions of his misdeeds with the quote “I wear the chains I forged in life.” The choice of the verb “forged” holds significance, as it alludes to the smelting that took place in Victorian England’s workhouses. Additionally, Marley expresses his optimism for Scrooge’s potential for change and states, “you have yet a chance and hope of escaping my fate.” This implies that Marley believes that Scrooge still has an opportunity to alter his destiny. Furthermore, the utilization of “fate” aligns with the spiritual theme Dickens employs throughout the novella. Marley’s character solely serves as the initial catalyst for Scrooge’s transformation, terrifying him as he realizes he does not want to end up like Marley.
The Ghost of Christmas past transports Scrooge to a significant moment in his past when Belle, his former fiancée, ends their relationship. Belle metaphorically expresses her belief that Scrooge’s obsession with money has replaced his affection for her, stating “another idol has displaced me, a golden one.” By presenting this scene, the Ghost of Christmas Past illustrates a time when Scrooge experienced immense happiness, only to contrast it immediately with the heartbreak of Belle’s departure. This poignant reminder serves to awaken Scrooge’s realization that he can indeed find love in his life and should not isolate himself and bask solely in his wealth.
Dickens may have aimed to demonstrate in Victorian England, a distinct division existed between the wealthy and the impoverished due to the industrial revolution displacing workers, potentially forcing them into debtor prisons for labor. This holds significance, as Scrooge represented the affluent minority who failed to contribute to the welfare of the destitute, merely safeguarding his own riches. The Ghost of Christmas past further emphasizes the consequences that befall Scrooge when Belle declares, “May you be pleased with the life you have chosen.” At present, this strikes a chord with Scrooge as he had been preoccupied with amassing wealth, but now realizes in hindsight that he missed out on love and family. Nonetheless, employing the term “happy” suggests that Belle still desires a good life for Scrooge, serving as a subtle suggestion that he can still change. In essence, Dickens incorporated the Ghost of Christmas past to illustrate to Scrooge how his ceaseless pursuit of material possessions culminated in forsaking affection and empathy in his existence.
Dickens also utilizes The Ghost of Christmas present to facilitate Scrooge’s transformation. The ghost brings Scrooge to the Cratchit’s residence where they are celebrating Christmas dinner. By observing “I see a vacant seat,” the ghost implies that Tiny Tim is unwell. This disturbs and concerns Scrooge as he recognizes that his insufficient payment to Bob Cratchit not only fails to sustain the family, but also exacerbates Tim’s health. In response, Scrooge pleads, “Oh, no spirit! Please assure me that he will be saved.” This particular remark holds great significance as the ghost has led Scrooge into this situation which profoundly impacts him, hence the exclamation mark.
In summary, the Spirits in A Christmas Carol consistently aid Scrooge throughout the story and are the exclusive catalyst for his transformation. They portray situations that exist solely because of Scrooge’s behavior, ultimately leading him to shift from being gloomy and isolated to being empathetic, compassionate, and full of zest for life.
